New Zealand Prime Minister John Key expressed his concern over reports of New Zealanders joining the extremist group, Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. Mr Key told Newstalk ZB the government was aware of a small group of New Zealand citizens who may pose as a threat.

The prime minister is aware of the fact that foreign fighters have joined ISIS. The terrorist group was openly recruiting people on social media to join their "jihad." Reports said many have responded to the call with at least 60 Australians known to be fighting alongside ISIS militants.

In a report by Stuff.co, Mr Key said the government is "reassessing" the threat of ISIS amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. When asked if New Zealanders were at risk to a terrorist threat, the prime minister said after a long pause that they were "slightly more at risk" last month. However, Mr Key added that the risk was low. He doesn't think New Zealand has become a terror target.

A few weeks ago, a terrorism expert had said New Zealand might be the next target of ISIS if the government decides to join the attacks against the extremist group in the Middle East. Greg Newbold from the Canterbury University believes terrorists can strike anywhere following the counter-terrorism raids conducted by police in Australia.

Newbold warned New Zealanders that a terrorist attack is always possible. ISIS had quickly risen to power and claimed more territories in Iraq and Syria. World leaders, including U.S. President Obama, had claimed ISIS is a group that should not be underestimated.

The United States launched airstrikes in Syria to target ISIS strongholds to cripple the organisation's operations. The aerial attacks also hit targets associated with the Khorasan Group, believed to be an affiliated with the Al-Qaeda group. U.S. authorities had claimed the group was planning terrorist attacks in Europe and the U.S.

The recent airstrikes involved aircraft not only from the U.S., but also from Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. The combined aerial assault destroyed ISIS-operated armed vehicles and oil refineries in Syria, reports said.

The New Zealand government has maintained its stance not to join the military assault in Iraq and Syria. The country has contributed $1 million in humanitarian aid. Mr Key remains hesitant to join other countries who have expressed their support for U.S.-led airstrikes.