The Islamic State (IS): Threat of terrorism and policy issues in relation to sectarianism

Abstract

Following years of unrest in Iraq and Syria, the rise of the Islamic State (IS) posed a grave threat to international security. Syria and Iraq are still home to the group's primary leadership and affiliates. IS’s apocalyptic philosophy and its extremist goal are nevertheless a concern. Based on current terrorism and security issues, this article investigates IS’s roots and how it has spread Islamic extremism in order to develop and expand its territory. A descriptive research design based on secondary and primary data sources was used to conduct a qualitative study. Sectarianism may have been prevented with a coherent post-Iraq war peacebuilding policy. Aside from military action, IS’s activities must be curtailed through the closure of financial and economic channels.