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Islamic State Poised for Possible Resurgence in Afghanistan, US Officials
Warn

Jeff Seldin

   WASHINGTON - The Islamic State's affiliate in Afghanistan -- seemingly
   pushed to the brink last year following unrelenting pressure from the
   U.S. and Afghan militaries, and by multiple Taliban offenses -- appears
   to have recovered and may soon look to strike further afield, according
   to U.S. military and intelligence officials.

   The turnaround for IS-Khorasan, as the group's Afghan affiliate is
   known, contrasts with its waning fortunes just over a year ago, when
   U.S. officials estimated it had lost "up to half its force" while
   suffering a string of defeats in Nangarhar and Kunar provinces.

   Stripped of its key territories, U.S. intelligence estimates at the
   time suggested IS-Khorasan was down to as few as 1,000 fighters.So too,
   there were growing questions about its offensive capabilities.

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