Preliminary investigations into the cell behind Tuesday’s bombings in Damascus indicate it was affiliated with Islamic State, a senior Syrian security official said.
What is Islamic State?
The Sunni Muslim group emerged in Iraq and Syria, creating a “caliphate” and declaring its rule over all Muslims. At its peak, it held large areas of Iraq and Syria, imposing its interpretation of Islamic Sharia law and carrying out brutal attacks.
Islamic State has been linked to attacks in dozens of cities worldwide, including a mass shooting in Australia and a bombing in Russia. The group has also been linked to plots in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
Current Operations
After being ousted from its bases in Syria and Iraq, Islamic State took refuge in the hinterlands of the two countries. The group retains a significant presence in Syria and Iraq and parts of Africa, and in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Islamic State has undergone a significant transformation, becoming a dispersed underground movement. The group now depends on clandestine cells, loosely connected operatives, and discreet courier networks to relay instructions and prepare attacks.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
