Publication

This report examines the origins and development of the so-called Islamic State (IS), the strategy and objectives of the group, and its future prospects. The author also speculates how to deal with IS, which he believes requires a comprehensive approach – i.e., an approach that has the international community 1) reevaluate its involvement in Syria; 2) expand its engagement with regional actors on a wide range of issues; and 3) focus on establishing legitimate institutions that are able to address the 'root cause' problems that permit movements such as IS to thrive.