EXCLUSIVE: Islamic State take extremist mission to Philippines | 60 Minutes Australia

Summary

This video script covers the conflict in the southern Philippines, focusing on how ISIS has established a foothold in the region. It delves into the challenges faced by the Philippines Armed Forces in regaining control of Marawi City, where ISIS aimed to create a stronghold. The script also highlights ongoing threats from ISIS fighters hiding in the jungle, training new recruits, and the increasing risk of suicide bombing attacks. Australian forces are providing training to local troops, and experts express concern over the potential for further violent extremism in the region.

Takeaways

• ⚔️ The Philippines has become a new battleground for ISIS, shifting their operations from the Middle East to local territories.
• 🏙️ The city of Marawi in the Philippines was a central hub for ISIS, leading to a deadly five-month siege that left the city in ruins.
• 💣 Despite military efforts, ISIS has not been eradicated, with many fighters still at large and continuing to pledge allegiance to the extremist group.
• 🌲 The dense jungles of southern Philippines serve as breeding grounds for extremist groups, where training and recruitment continue.
• 👥 ISIS has successfully united disparate fighters under their banner, aiming to create an Islamic state in Southeast Asia.
• 🧨 The siege of Marawi resulted in over 1,000 deaths, including civilians, soldiers, and ISIS fighters, with extensive aerial bombardment used to reclaim the city.
• 🚢 The Australian military is assisting the Philippines in counter-terrorism efforts, providing training in urban combat and maritime operations.
• 🔫 Local ISIS fighters, including young men and older recruits, continue to prepare for future attacks, driven by both ideology and financial incentives.
• 🎯 Experts warn that the failure to reconstruct Marawi could lead to more radicalization, with extremist recruitment thriving in makeshift camps for displaced citizens.
• 🧳 The threat of ISIS attacks extends beyond the Philippines, with concerns about potential bombings in Manila and possibly even Australia.

Q & A

What is the main setting of the combat scenes in the transcript?

The main setting is the southern Philippines, specifically Marawi City, which was used as a battleground by ISIS militants.

Why did ISIS choose to establish a presence in the Philippines?

ISIS chose the Philippines due to the dense jungle regions, which have historically been a breeding ground for local extremist groups, and because it provided an alternative battleground as fighting in the Middle East became more difficult.

How long did it take the Philippines Armed Forces to regain control of Marawi City?

It took the Philippines Armed Forces five months to regain control of Marawi City from ISIS militants.

Did the military completely eliminate ISIS from Marawi City?

No, the military did not completely eliminate ISIS. Some fighters remain at large, hiding in the jungle and training new recruits.

What strategy is ISIS using to continue its fight in Southeast Asia?

ISIS is using a guerrilla strategy, encouraging fighters to wage war in their home regions rather than traveling to Syria or Iraq. They aim to unify disparate local extremist groups under the ISIS banner.

What role did Australian forces play in the Philippines?

Australian forces, including more than 100 troops from the Army, Air Force, and Navy, were sent to the southern Philippines to train local military units in urban close combat and counter-insurgency tactics.

Why are the streets of Marawi City still dangerous for civilians?

The streets are dangerous due to hundreds of unexploded bombs hidden beneath the rubble, left over from the siege and military bombardment.

How is ISIS recruiting new fighters in the region?

ISIS is recruiting new fighters, particularly among displaced and impoverished young men in makeshift camps, offering them money, guns, and the promise of a better life under Sharia law.

What concern does Sydney Jones express about the future of ISIS in the Philippines?

Sydney Jones, an expert on terrorism in Southeast Asia, expresses concern that the failure to reconstruct Marawi City will foster resentment and create fertile ground for further ISIS recruitment and possible future attacks.

What new strategy is ISIS using after the failed siege of Marawi?

After the failed siege, ISIS has shifted its strategy to suicide bombing attacks, with a focus on densely populated cities like Manila.