The Islamic State group, also known as ISIS, has claimed responsibility for the recent attack at the Crocus City complex near Moscow. The group published an image showing four masked men believed to be the attackers. The image, released by the ISIS-affiliated Amaq agency, obscures the faces of the individuals.
According to a translation by the SITE Intelligence Group, ISIS described the attack as one of the 'fiercest in years.' Amaq provided details of the incident, stating that three of the attackers engaged the crowd at the venue with guns and knives, while the fourth individual threw incendiary devices. The agency reported that the attackers had conducted extensive surveillance of the venue prior to the assault.
ISIS framed the attack as part of the ongoing conflict between the group and nations it perceives as adversaries. The message from Amaq emphasized that the incident was a manifestation of the broader conflict between the Islamic State and countries opposed to its ideology.
The attack has raised concerns about security in the region and the potential for further violence. Authorities are investigating the incident and working to ensure the safety of the public in the aftermath of the attack.