Alexander Bortnikov, head of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), alleged in late May that Western intelligence services are attempting to use former fighters of the Islamic State (ISIS) as proxy forces against Iran.

Speaking at a meeting of intelligence officials from eight ex-Soviet nations on May 26, Bortnikov claimed that 'Western intelligence services do not give up on their attempts to utilise militant terrorists from Syria as proxy forces in the war against Iran,' according to state-run RIA Novosti.

In February, the United States began transferring thousands of ISIS-linked prisoners from detention centers in northeastern Syria to Iraq, following Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's decision to join the anti-ISIS coalition and regain control of Kurdish-held areas.

Bortnikov provided no evidence for his claims, such as intercepted communications or photographs, and did not specify which Western nation is allegedly involved. The FSB has a history of misinformation, particularly regarding Ukraine, according to the White House and multiple leaks.

Former KGB officer Gennady Gudkov dismissed Bortnikov's statements as baseless, arguing that Russia's security agencies operate without oversight and can spread any falsehoods. Experts like Ruslan Suleymanov called the claims 'far-fetched' and based on rumors.

Some analysts suggest Bortnikov's allegations aim to restore Russia's waning influence in former Soviet republics by stoking fears of Western threats. However, his remarks received limited coverage in Russian media and no public support from ex-Soviet security officials.

In October 2025, Bortnikov made similar accusations against British intelligence, which the UK dismissed as 'utter nonsense.'

Source: www.aljazeera.com