As the U.S. launched its first airstrikes Monday in Syria against the extremist Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, Americans also learned that the raid targeted another jihadist group known as Khorasan.
But who is this group and why have officials until now not been highlighting it like ISIS?
So far, U.S. intelligence officials have said that Khorasan is equally as dangerous as ISIS and also poses just as likely a threat to launch terror attacks on Western targets including the United States.
The man thought to lead the group, Muhsin al-Fadhli, was involved in the 11 September terror attacks and was said to be one of Osama bin Laden’s top commanders.
Officials warn that the group has advanced expertise in making bombs and some jihadist fighter members also reportedly hold Western passports, posing a significant threat to the United States and other targets.
“In terms of threat to the homeland, Khorasan may pose as much of a danger as the Islamic State,” said James Clapper, U.S. Director of National Intelligence.
So far it’s unclear how many members Khorasan has, how long it’s been in existence, or what its core message is and experts believe its low profile provides a sharp contrast to the flamboyance of ISIS, with its insatiable desire for media attention.
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