| ID | 142173 |
| Title Proper | Containing the islamic state |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Juneau, Thomas |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | In early 2014, the organization then known as the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant swept across northwestern Iraq while simultaneously expanding the territory under its control in eastern Syria. The group, which renamed itself the Islamic State (IS) in June 2014, is led by members of what used to be al-Qaeda in Iraq. It has incorporated Iraqi Sunnis who hold grievances against the Shia-dominated government in Baghdad (mostly former members of Saddam Hussein's regime and alienated tribes) as well as a variety of armed Syrian opposition groups. By mid-2014, IS threatened to further expand in Iraq and Syria, while there were plausible fears that it could cross into neighboring countries, especially Jordan. It has entrenched sectarian divisions and further weakened the state in Iraq and has worsened an already devastating civil war in Syria. It represents a magnet and a safe haven for terrorists in the heart of the Middle East. |
| `In' analytical Note | Middle East Policy Vol. 22, No.2; Fall 2015: p.36–43 |
| Journal Source | Middle East Policy Vol: 22 No 3 |
| Key Words | Middle East ; Islamic State ; US Strategy |