This study examines the evolution of hashtags used by Turkish supporters of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) on Twitter, comparing the predefeat period (2014–2018) with the postdefeat period (2019–2022). The analysis encompasses 312,197 tweets to identify thematic shifts and network structures. In the predefeat phase, hashtags were primarily centered on geopolitical conflicts and political discourse, with prominent hashtags like #islamdevleti (Islamic State) and #incirlikkapatilsin (Incirlik Base must be closed). The network analysis revealed a main cluster of interconnected hashtags alongside smaller, niche groups. Postdefeat, the focus shifted towards humanitarian aid, financial support, and religious themes, with hashtags such as #sadaka (charity) and #infak (alms) becoming more prominent. This period exhibited multiple smaller, independent hashtag clusters, reflecting a more fragmented thematic focus. Despite these changes, core hashtags like #islamdevleti (Islamic State) and #hilafettakip (follow the caliphate) remained consistent, indicating enduring support for ISIS ideologies. The study underscores the adaptability of terrorist propaganda strategies in response to evolving circumstances and highlights the dynamic nature of online extremist activities. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how online platforms are leveraged by terrorist supporters to sustain and evolve their narratives over time.
Keywords: Twitter hashtags, terrorist propaganda, social media extremism, ISIS Turkish supporters, hashtag network analysis
