Jihadist threat not over, Italian PM warns

Rome, Feb 28 (IANS/AKI) Jihadism continues to pose a security threat, especially due to its resilience and ability to evolve, Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte said on Thursday, noting that home-grown extremism is growing in his country.

"The jihadist threat is not over," Conte said at the presentation here of an annual security report published by Italy's intelligence services.

"It distinguishes itself by its ability to adapt and its resilience.

"We have reasons not to lower our guard," he said, while praising progress made in Italy's counter-terrorism efforts.

Conte drew attention to the "ever growing" and "ever-more evasive" phenomenon of home-grown jihadists.

"This requires ratcheting up research and surveillance. But the report gives reassuring information on the high level of counter-terrorism activity."

While the Islamic State jihadist group's ability to plan and give direct support to terrorist acts has been weakened by its defeat in its former strongholds and its loss of territory in Iraq and Syria, as well as fighters and senior leaders, it can still inspire attacks in Europe and give guidance, the report warns.

--IANS/AKI

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