Man admits attempting to join ISIS after watching YouTube, TikTok videos

A 22-year-old British man from Somalia, Mohamed Mohamoud, has admitted in a UK court that he sought to join ISIS after being influenced by extremist content on YouTube and TikTok. Mohamoud, who relocated to Bristol in 2020, is on trial at Winchester Crown Court for allegedly attempting to join ISIS between October 1, 2024, and March 5, 2025.

According to court documents, he allegedly traveled to Somalia in January 2025 with the intent to become a "martyr" for ISIS, but was thwarted by counter-terrorism operations and returned to the UK in early March. Prosecutors claim he used an AI chatbot to connect with ISIS members in Somalia. Upon his return, Mohamoud reportedly maintained communication with ISIS recruiters, promising to return at their request.

The court heard that Mohamoud's interest in ISIS began with his exposure to "extreme" videos on social media platforms, where he found discussions on democracy, socialism, and perceived "disbelievers." He admitted to expressing his desire to join ISIS after watching a video promoting the group. Mohamoud, who had previously lived in the UAE, moved to Bristol as a teenager and studied English, mathematics, and cooking, all while maintaining a strained relationship with his mother. The trial is ongoing.