In a recent development, a mysterious individual contributing propaganda for the Afghan branch of ISIS, known as ISIS-K, has surfaced, claiming to be based in Canada. Writing under the pseudonym Sulaiman Dawood al-Kanadie, this individual has raised eyebrows among experts and authorities alike.
The online publication used by ISIS-K, Voice of Khurasan, features several pieces attributed to Sulaiman Dawood al-Kanadie. In one notable essay from June 2023, the author hints at residing in a Western country, expressing disdain for Muslim men in his vicinity who prioritize trivial matters over joining armed conflicts on behalf of ISIS.
Riccardo Valle, director of research for Khorasan Diary, has been monitoring al-Kanadie’s activities and made contact with him online. While al-Kanadie disclosed his location as Canada, specifics were not provided. Valle provided evidence of an inactive Facebook profile indicating al-Kanadie’s purported residency in Toronto, with ties to Laval, Quebec.
The emergence of an individual associated with ISIS-K identifying as “the Canadian” has drawn concern from experts. Lucas Webber, co-founder of the research network Militant Wire, highlights the potential threat posed by ISIS-K and suggests that recent events, such as the Moscow attack attributed to the group, underscore the urgency of addressing this threat.
Canadian security agencies, including the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), are closely monitoring ISIS-K activities. CSIS anticipates continued global attacks by the group throughout 2024. However, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), responsible for counterterrorism efforts in Canada, did not respond to inquiries regarding the matter.
ISIS-K has exploited the instability in Afghanistan to expand its operations and influence. Notably, Canadians have previously featured prominently in ISIS propaganda, with individuals like Farah Mohamed Shirdon and Mohammed Khalifa gaining notoriety for their affiliations with the group.
Amarnath Amarasingam, an expert on ISIS, emphasizes the ongoing potential for Canadian involvement in terrorist activities and suggests that authorities have likely been tracking al-Kanadie’s activities. With English-speaking propagandists like al-Kanadie able to attract recruits, the issue remains a significant concern for Canadian authorities.
In light of these developments, the presence of an individual claiming ties to ISIS-K within Canada raises serious questions about national security and underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures by law enforcement agencies.