Why Would ISIS Bomb Moscow?
On October 31, 2015, a series of coordinated bombings rocked the Vologradsky Boulevard in central Moscow, Russia, killing 39 people and injuring over 60 others. The attack was claimed by the Islamic State (ISIS), a militant group known for its brutal tactics and global reach. The question on everyone’s mind was: why would ISIS target Moscow, a city over 1,000 miles away from its stronghold in Syria?
Geopolitical Rivalry
One of the primary reasons ISIS might have targeted Moscow is the ongoing geopolitical rivalry between Russia and the West. Russia’s military intervention in Syria in September 2015, which was seen as a significant escalation of its involvement in the conflict, may have triggered a response from ISIS. The group may have seen the Russian intervention as a threat to its own territorial control and a challenge to its ideology.
Symbolic Target
Moscow, as the capital of Russia, is a symbolic target for ISIS. By attacking the city, the group may have been attempting to send a message to the Russian government and the world at large. ISIS has a history of targeting symbolic locations, such as the Bardo Museum in Tunisia and the Grand Hotel in Bamako, Mali, to spread fear and chaos.
Divide and Conquer
Another possible reason for the attack is ISIS’s strategy of divide and conquer. By targeting Moscow, the group may have been attempting to create divisions between Russia and the West. The attack may have been intended to create a rift between Russia and its allies, such as the United States, and to drive a wedge between Russia and its neighbors, such as Ukraine.
Recruitment and Propaganda
ISIS may have also seen the attack as an opportunity to recruit new members and spread its propaganda. The group’s media outlets, such as Dabiq and Rumiyah, often feature graphic images and videos of its attacks, which are intended to inspire and radicalize new recruits. By targeting a major city like Moscow, ISIS may have been attempting to demonstrate its reach and capabilities, and to attract new followers.
Regional Consequences
The attack on Moscow may have also had regional consequences. The incident may have created tensions between Russia and its neighbors, such as Ukraine and Georgia, which have been struggling with their own conflicts. The attack may have also led to increased security measures and restrictions on civil liberties in Russia, which could have a negative impact on the country’s economy and human rights situation.
Key Players
Here is a list of key players involved in the attack:
• ISIS: The Islamic State, a militant group known for its brutal tactics and global reach.
• Russian government: The government of Russia, which has been involved in the conflict in Syria.
• Western powers: The United States, European Union, and other Western countries, which have been involved in the conflict in Syria and have a strained relationship with Russia.
• Ukrainian government: The government of Ukraine, which has been struggling with its own conflict with Russian-backed separatists.
Timeline of Events
Here is a timeline of the events surrounding the attack:
• September 2015: Russia begins its military intervention in Syria.
• October 31, 2015: A series of coordinated bombings rock the Vologradsky Boulevard in central Moscow, Russia.
• November 2015: ISIS claims responsibility for the attack.
• 2016: Russia and the West continue to engage in a geopolitical rivalry, with Russia supporting the Syrian government and the West supporting rebel groups.
Conclusion
The attack on Moscow by ISIS was a significant event that highlighted the group’s reach and capabilities. The reasons behind the attack are complex and multifaceted, but it is clear that ISIS saw the city as a symbolic target and an opportunity to spread fear and chaos. The attack may have also had regional consequences, including increased tensions between Russia and its neighbors and a negative impact on human rights and civil liberties in Russia.
