With increasing competition between the two ideological twins i.e. Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State of Iraq and Sham (ISIS), the two have hitherto shown their will and resolve to contest over wearing the crown of global jihad and being the umbrella jihadi organization of worldwide jihadi forces. Another key issue is to show strength and influence in order to gain media attention.
The ISIS, though, quite new on the scene with not very experienced leadership has been able to flex its muscle by carving out Syrian and Iraqi territories and announcing a renegade Islamic State. On the other hand 26-year old Al-Qaeda (b.1988) under the leadership of experienced Zawahiri is living in shadows. In order to stay in limelight, Zawahiri has recently announced the creation of new Al-Qaeda wing, the Al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS)[1]. While Baghdadi’s ISIS non-stop tremendous track record has attracted the attention of radical jihadi groups worldwide.
The creation of Islamic State (aka ISIS and Daash) has allowed a plethora of jihadis to seek the ISIS franchise. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi whose real name is Ibrahim Awwad Ibrahim al-Badri (aka Abu Dua) proclaimed his caliphate with a message to all Islamist groups, he said,
“It is incumbent upon all Muslims to pledge allegiance [to him], once the caliph and his fighters arrive in a particular area, the legality of all emirates, groups, states, and organizations, becomes null by the expansion of the khalifah’s authority.[2]”
By September 2014, a wide range of Islamist terrorist groups have either pledged allegiance or supported ISIS:
- Tehreek-e-Khilafat Pakistan
- Indonesian Mujahedeen, East Timor
- Liwa Ahrar al-Sunna, Lebanon
- Jamaat Ansar Bait al-Maqdis, Sinai, Egypt
- Jaish al-Sahaba (Supporter of the Companions), Syria
- Al-Huda Battalion (part of Jund al-Khalifa aka The Soldiers of the Caliphate), Algerians in Syria
- Boko Haram, Nigeria (supported)
- Okba Ibn Nafaa Battalion,(part of Ansar al-Sharia), Tunisia
- Al-Tawheed Brigade in Khorasan, Afghanistan
- Ansar al-Sharia, Yemen
- Abu Sayaf Group, the Philippines
- Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, the Philippines
- Ansar al-Khilafah, the Philippines[3]
- Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (defection of some leaders)
Some of the above mentioned ISIS-affiliates are novices in the field of terrorism, either they are just surfaced or with very thin memberships. Most of them have been credited for very few terrorist incidents. Some are quite old and seasoned terrorist groups like Boko Haram and Abu Sayaf which are in the business for quite some time. Each has its own reasons to join hands with ISIS and the geographical location is another interesting issue. A number of Wahabi/Salafi Ulema (clerics) have also exalted the creation of Caliphate and approved its credentials. Some of those Ulemas are:
- Shaikh Abu Umar al-Kuwaiti
- Abu Yazid al-Qahar al-Khurasani[4]
- Bilal ash-Shawasi al-Tunisi
- Abu Usama Musaid ibn Bashir al-Sudani[5]
- Abdullah al-Faisal al-Jamaiki[6]
- Bilal Chaouachi of Ansar al-Sharia Tunisia[7]
- Mamoon Hatem of Ansar al-Sharia (part of AQAP)[8]
- Abdal Mujeed al-Heetari[9]
- Shaikh Abu Wardah Santoso al-Indoneesi[10]
- Anjem Choudary[11]
- Musa Cerantonio[12]
- Ulema of Jund al-Khilafah in the Philippines[13]
It is imperative to discuss each group to measure the strengths and weaknesses vis-à-vis Al-Qaeda affiliates.
- Tehreek-e-Khilafat Pakistan
The very first group to pledge allegiance to ISIS just after the announcement of Islamic State was Tehreek-e-Khilfat Pakistan (TKP). Little is known about TKP. What we do know is that the TKP has a small network in Karachi and had perpetrated one terrorist incident in Karachi. It was considered part of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) a tribal area based group and an Al-Qaeda affiliate in Pakistan. The TKP spokesperson announced the affiliation in a statement,
“From today, Sheikh Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi shall consider Tehreek-e-Khilafat and Jihad mujahideen fighters of Pakistan as one of the arrows among his arrows which he has kept for his bow. We are praying from the almighty Allah to give us chance in our lives to see the expansion of Islamic State boundaries toward the SubContinent and Khurasan region in order to hoist the flag of Islamic State here.[14]”
In a way the TKP defected to ISIS as it used to be part of Al-Qaeda-linked TTP[15]. Though the TKP move does not inflict any damage to TTP or Al-Qaeda but shows a new developing trend among Pakistani jihadi groups. Establishing a caliphate in Pakistan is one of the most important agendas of almost all Pakistani jihadi groups. The concept of Khurasan is widely discussed issues even among Pakistani Islamist parties and carries attraction for Islamists.
- Indonesian Mujahedeen, East Timor
Indonesia remained turbulent for long especially after the commencement of Global War on Terror (GWOT). The country’s Islamist networks produced a number of high profile Islamist terrorists such as Isam ud Din Hambali, Noor ud Din Top and Omar Patek. Al-Qaeda presence was quite visible in early 2000s but successful counter terrorism strategies prevailed and no major terrorist attack reported after the Bali incidents of 2004. After several high profile attacks by Al-Qaeda affiliate Gamma Islamiya, the Indonesian government launched a severe crackdown against the jihadi outfits and managed to break their backbone.
Despite the fact that the Indonesian government is still maintaining a tight control in curbing jihadi activities it is reported that more than 66 Indonesian Islamists have travelled to Syria and Iraq to fight alongside the ISIS during 2014 [16] and according to New York based consultant Soufan Group the number is estimated to be 200[17]. According to National Police Chief of Indonesia Sutarman, the jihadis travelling to Levant are mostly from Poso, Ambon in the Maluku Islands, and eastern and central Java[18].Poso region remains the most vulnerable as most of the jihadis are from there. Poso is also home to Mujahedeen Indonesia Timor. Led by veteran jihadi Santoso, the group has pledged allegiance to Caliph Ibrahim of ISIS (Baghdadi’s adopted name after becoming the leader of IS). Mujahedeen Indonesia Timor (MIT) attempts to impose Sharia law in Indonesia and wants to merge the country with the global caliphate under the leadership of Baghdadi.
Besides the ambitions of MIT, more than 500 Indonesian clerics belonging to Sharia Activists Forum based at Indonesian Islamic University declared their support to ISIS in February this year. In another surprising manner Bekasi Ummat Islam Congress based in Bekasi City also pledged allegiance to Baghdadi’s ISIS in the same month[19].
- Liwa Ahrar al-Sunna, Lebanon
Initially affiliated with ISIS’s bête noire Jahbat ul Nusrah (Nusrah Front), the Liwa Ahrar al-Sunna later changed sides and joined the caliphate camp. Liwa is a Lebanon based small Salafi terrorist group, formerly used by Nusrah Front to target Hezbollah activists involved in Syrian Civil War by the side of Assad regime. In March early this year the Liwa sent suicide bomber to Hezbollah dominated Bekka valley. Two important Hezbollah commanders lost their lives in the suicide attack. The suicide operation was conducted after the defeat of Nusrah Front by government forces in Syria. Town of Yabrud near Lebanese border also fell to the forces loyal to Assad. Liwa proudly claimed the responsibility of suicide attack and said in a statement,
“Liwa Ahrar al-Sunna in Baalbek officially takes responsibility for the heroic martyrdom (suicide) operation ‘revenge for Yabrud’ in the village of Al-Nabi Othman[20].”
Why the Liwa changed sides is not clear. Apparently the two rival Islamist forces have been able to merge the minor Islamist jihadi groups involved in the Syrian conflict. The two bigs other than having enormous resources control territories in Syria and Iraq and resist the government onslaught for longer periods than the small or depleting groups.
- Jamaat Ansar Bait al-Maqdis, Sinai, Egypt
Ansar Bait al-Maqdis, a Salafi violent Islamist group, operates in Sinai Peninsula, Egypt. Ansar Bait al Maqdis was founded by former Muslim Brotherhood imprisoned inmates who managed to escape amidst Egyptian law in order crisis of 2013.[21] The group was responsible for scores of terrorist attacks on Egyptian police, military, Israeli troops patrolling the border, rocket attacks on Israeli city of Eilat, and destruction of oil pipe lines passing through Sinai desert. The group also claimed responsibility for bombing of tourist bus of South Koreans, near the city of Taba in Sinai resulting in the death of four tourists.[22] A recent major incident claimed by Ansar was beheading of four Egyptians ‘accused of being Israeli spies’ in Sinai desert[23]. The filmmaking and conduct of the executioner in the video was in ISIS-fashion.
Initially the Ansars were interested in seeking Al-Qaeda franchise as it was more useful for getting media coverage and logistical support from other Al-Qaeda-linked groups in the proximity to Egypt. With the advent of ISIS and its consecutive victories Ansar Bait al-Maqdis spokesperson on its official social media website announced the allegiance to ISIS Emir Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. The announcement says,
“We are at the service of our Emir, Baghdadi. There was no discussion in pledging allegiance and all mujahidin in Egypt must pledge allegiance. Whoever violates the pledge of allegiance will cause us no harm but there is no excuse for him as Allah is the Arbiter of Success.[24]”
Despite the fact that the Ansar is a small group with limited area of activities the group’s initiative to join hands with ISIS may strengthen its financial and recruitment networks. The group may provide a new recruitment ground for ISIS as thousands of disgruntled Muslim Brotherhood activists may become a useful lot of ISIS.
- Jaish al-Sahaba, Iraq and Syria
Jaish al-Sahaba or the Army of the Companions is part of 23-member alliance of Iraqi armed resistance umbrella organization Supreme Command for Jihad and Liberation, active in Iraq since 2007 against the US and Iraqi defense forces. The umbrella organization comprises over secular, nationalist, Baathist and Islamist groups. Currently Jaish al-Sahaba is active in Syrian Civil War. Very little is known about Jaish apart from the fact that it was part of Supreme Council.
According to Charles Lister of Brookings Doha Center Jaish al-Sahaba was the first one to pledge allegiance to Caliph Baghdadi right after his announcement of Caliphate. Lister describes the group as ‘very small’[25]. Jaish announced joining ISIS in a very short statement,
“Army of the Prophet’s Companions, declares loyalty to Sheikh Baghdadi, may Allah protect him.[26]”
Though number wise insignificant, Jaish appears committed to reinvigorate in order to prove its vitality in Iraq where once it had to move into Syria. As it appears that standing by the side of bigger and resourceful ISIS could bring better opportunities for Jaish and benefiting from ISIS could also astray chances of falling apart, a disease quite common for the demise of terrorist groups.
- Al-Huda Battalion (aka The Soldiers of the Caliphate), Syria
Al-Huda Battalion is part of Jund al-Khalifa, an Islamist violent non-state actor involved in Syrian Civil War. The Al-Huda Battalion of Jund is composed of Algerian veteran Islamists, previously part of Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (SGPC) which is a splinter group of ultra-extremist Takfiri Group Islamic Army (GIA), a primary Islamist violent non-state actor in Algerian Civil War (1991-2000). Jund al-Khalifa was established by Abu Omar al-Kuwaiti soon after arriving in Syria during the early days of the war[27]. Al-Kuwaiti pledged allegiance to Baghdadi shortly after the proclamation of Islamic State and the creation of Caliphate[28]. Al-Kuwaiti has developed differences with the IS high command despite his allegiance. According to reports Al-Kuwaiti proposed to bring in Abu Mohammad al-Riffai, a London-based Islamist cleric as the Caliph of Islamic State. Another point of difference was Al-Kuwaiti’s demand for publicly issuing Takfir for Al-Qaeda Emir Ayman al-Zawahiri for his alleged silence on killing of Shias in Iraq and Syria[29].
Al-Huda Battalions suffered a massive blow when their key commanders Omar al-Hayjaneh and Ammar Awad were killed during an ambush by Syrian army near the town of al-Shafounyeh in the last week of August[30]. In another development Abdul Malek Droudkel, leader Al-Qaeda in Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) has refused to recognize the Islamic State/Caliphate of Baghdadi and not only that renewed his oath of allegiance to Zawahiri[31].
- Abu Sayyaf Group, the Philippines
The Philippine-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) is the oldest of all Islamist terrorist groups hitherto pledged allegiance to ISIS[32]. In a video uploaded on YouTube by ASG media wing, Isnilon Hapilon a senior leader of ASG is seen reading out a statement and pledging allegiance to Baghdadi and IS[33]. Speaking fluent Arabic, Hapilon swore allegiance to Baghdadi and affirmed his support, “loyalty and obedience in adversity and comfort.[34]”
The ASG has long standing ties with Al-Qaeda and its founder Osama Bin Laden. Bin Laden’s brother-in law Mohammad Jamal Khalifa was once stationed in Manila, and provided seed money to Khalid Shaikh Mohammad (the 9/11 mastermind) and Abdul Basit Abdul Karim aka Ramzi Yousaf (1993 WTC attack mastermind) in launching Bojinka Plot[35]. Ramzi Yousaf, the 1993 World Trade Center bomber also had close links with ASG which he developed during Afghanistan training camps, and perhaps that was one reason he decided to stay in the Philippines after escaping from the US in 1993.
ASG was founded in 1991 by a veteran of Afghan War Abu Bakar Janjalani. Janjalani was trained by Abdul Rab Rasul Sayyaf, leader of Itehad-e-Islami, a Wahabi/Salafi Afghan Mujahedeen group, involved in fighting the Soviets during Afghan War (1979-89). The Saudi funded Abdul Rab Rasul Sayyaf had a plethora of training camps where he trained thousands of radical Islamists from all over the world.[36] After Abu Bakar Janjalani’s death in a shootout with Filipino military in 1996, his brother Khaddafy Janjalani took over the reins of ASG who faced the same fate in 2006. Since then the ASG is led by Abdul Qadir Zoher, Radullan Sahiron and Isnilon Hapilon ($5 million bounty). One of the deadliest terrorist attacks launched by Abu Sayyaf was bombing of a tourist ferry in Manila Bay in 2004 causing deaths of 100 people[37].
The ASG’s recent kidnapping of German couple from South China Sea in April this year has sparked tensions as the ASG demands a ransom of $5.6 million and an end to German support to US-led bombing campaign against ISIS. The group has threatened to kill the Germans by October 10 if their demands are not met[38].
- Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, the Philippines
Another Filipino Islamist terrorist group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF)[39] swore allegiance to IS and Baghdadi alongside Abu Sayyaf Group. BIFF splintered out of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in 2008. The MILF fights for the liberation of Mindanao from the Philippines and to establish an Islamic republic in southern Philippines. BIFF opposes MILF-government peace talks and stresses over the continuation of decades old armed struggle against the Filipino government[40].
BIFF spokesperson Abu Misry Mama confirmed the allegiance and said, “We have an alliance with the Islamic State and Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi ….But if they need our help, why not?”[41]
BIFF is led by Al-Ustaj Umbra Amiril Kato and its estimated strength is few hundred with no consolidated terrorist infrastructure. Sixty Seven year old Kato studied in Saudi Arabian and adheres to Wahabi/Salafi school of thought, an obscure ideology ISIS also espouses to[42].
The Philippines Army spokesperson described BIFF a band of extortionists in a statement issued after BIFF announcement of pledging allegiance to IS and rejected rumours about BIFF sending Filipino Muslim youth to Syria and Iraq for training at IS-run training camps[43].
- Ansar al-Khilafah, the Philippines
The third Filipino group to swear allegiance to Islamic State is Ansar al-Khilafah (Supporters of the Caliphate)[44]. The relatively unknown group surfaced in Syria while fighting alongside ISIS against the force loyal to President Assad. Comprising of Salafist Filipino Muslim youth from Mindanao, the group managed to capture small Syrian town Khan al-Asal near Aleppo in July in alliance with Nusrah Front. Later the Ansar changed sides and pledged allegiance to ISIS. The group is considered to be small and an offshoot of either MILF or ASG both active Islamist insurgencies in the Philippines.
- Boko Haram, Nigeria
According to Inter Center’s ranking of worldwide terrorist groups by virtue of their strengths and destructive spree in terms of human and material losses, Boko Haram (235 points) stands third in the list. Only ISIS (812 points) and Somali al-Shabab (285 points) could manage to surpass Boko Haram[45].
Came into being as Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (People Committed to the Prophet’s Teachings for Propagation and Jihad), in 2002. More commonly known as Boko Haram (Western education is forbidden) because of their abhorrence of anything western. The group was founded by Mohammad Yousaf in Maiduguri, Northern Nigerian State of Borno on the inspiration provided by ideological and religious teachings of Yan Tatsine an ultra-radical Wahabi/Salafi cleric[46]. Though active in random acts of violence since 2002, the Boko Haram launched its concerted campaign of terror by 2009 after the death of its founder Mohammad Yousaf in a gun battle with security forces. Abu Bakr Shekhu, the new leader of the group then launched hundreds of terrorist strikes all across Nigeria[47]. Boko Haram is estimated to have killed more than 5000 Nigerians. In a recent wave of kidnappings, the Boko Haram militants abducted 300 girls as young as 12 from local boarding schools in Chibok, northern Nigeria[48].
Boko Haram is considered a traditional ally of al-Qaeda and has developed links with Al-Qaeda in Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). The consecutive ISIS victories in Iraq and Syria have definitely affected Boko Haram and this helped Abu Bakr Shekhu voicing support for ISIS. He said,
“My Brethren ….may Allah protect you[49]”
Perhaps Shekhu might be considering a ‘wait and see’ policy for shifting side. His statements show a clear tilt towards ISIS. The Boko Haram’s sense of competition is also growing vis-à-vis ISIS. The group announced establishment of Caliphate in northern Nigeria, following the footsteps on Baghdadi and ISIS. According to one recent report on Boko Haram,
“while the West has since concentrated its focus on the “caliphate” or religious fiefdom declared by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (Isis) in Iraq and Syria, a similar announcement by Boko Haram’s leader Abubakar Shekau – and a series of territorial gains – has passed largely unremarked outside Nigeria.[50]”
The ISIS also, in a friendly tone, offered Boko Haram advice on religious and strategic issues for the establishment of African Caliphate in northern Nigeria[51]. It is believed that Boko Haram has carved out more territory under its control in Nigeria than ISIS in both Iraq and Syria. As far as jihadi ambitions are concerned both ISIS and Boko Haram intend to establish their respective caliphates on the basis of Salafi/Wahabi model. Both are no different in strictly enforcing Wahabi-inspired Sharia laws in their spheres of influence and treatment of women and minorities is also identical. There stands a huge possibility of both joining hands but in a more equal-footing manner. The ISIS has to entertain Boko Haram in a different way rather than other small groups becoming satellites of ISIS.
- Okba Ibn Nafaa Battalion, Tunisia
Though the core groups, part of Al-Qaeda in Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) remained undeterred to ISIS’ calling but there are exceptions such as small militant faction Okba Ibn Nafaa Battalion, based in mountainous regions between Tunisia and Algeria. Okba Ibn Nafaa is part of Ansar al-Sharia, Tunisia and long associated with AQIM. Ansar al-Sharia and its associated groups have been perpetrating terrorist attacks after the fall of President Zein al-Abideen regime as a result of beginning of Arab Spring in Tuniria. In a statement Okba Ibn Nafaa’s spokesperson pledged allegiance to ISIS Emir Baghdadi (aka Caliph Ibrahim) and offered full unconditional support.
“The mujahedeen brothers in the Okba Ibn Nafaa Brigade from… (Tunisia) are supporting, endorsing, and strongly sustaining the State of the Islamic Caliphate.[52]”
Okba Ibn Nafaa Battalion was involved in deadly terrorist attack on Tunisian army, near Algerian border causing the deaths of 15 Tunisian soldiers[53]. The addition of Okba would allow ISIS to extend its reach in North Africa. Small militant Islamist groups usually become recruitment outlets for bigger and stronger terrorist and insurgent groups.
- Al-Tawheed Brigade in Khorasan, Afghanistan
Another small group, splintered out of Al-Qaeda Core (based in Pakistani tribal areas) has pledged allegiance to Islamic State. Nothing much is known about the group, its leadership and strengths, except that it is based in Pakistan-Afghanistan tribal belt and previously connected to Al-Qaeda. The group is so new that in its statement of allegiance the spokesperson has also sought advice from the Caliph (Baghadi)[54].
- Ansar al-Sharia, Yemen and Ansar al-Sharia in Libya
Some Al-Qaeda-linked groups are indecisive about joining the ISIS. The sudden rise of ISIS and its accomplished feats are indeed inspiring for jihadi community. It is easier for small and new groups to take the decision whereas for strong and large entities it is difficult to decide. Ansar al-Sharia in Yemen is part of Al-Qaeda franchise Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula, headed by Nasir al-Wahushi. Ansar al-Sharia, in recent past, has been quite successful in getting hold of large chunk of territories in Yemen. The group is comprised of hundreds of thousands of Al-Qaeda followers, heavily armed and trained. On the announcement of Islamic State, Ibrahim al-Rubaish an Ansar al-Sharia ideologue issued a statement congratulating Baghdadi and his Islamic State, he said,
“I congratulate all the Mujahideen on all battlefronts and all Muslims on the victories that our brothers in Iraq have achieved against the puppets of the [Iranians], Who does not rejoice in the victory of the Sunni Muslims and the defeat of the gangs of [Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-]Maliki, which had tormented the Sunnis?[55]”
The statement appears to be more of anti-Shia strategy which both ISIS and Ansar al-Sharia follow. Shias are in majority in Iraq and in Yemen they constitute a significant minority. Yet both Ansar al-Sharia Yemen and Ansar al-Sharia in Libya have not been able to decide their future course of action. The Libyan Ansar al-Sharia’s Shura Council has also expressed support for ISIS and its Caliph Baghdadi and did not pledge solemn allegiance to the Islamic State[56].
- Shahidullah Shahid Group of TTP
The most recent new comers to join the fold of Islamist State were some leaders of TTP Fazalullah Group who defected to ISIS. The TTP-Fazalullah has supported the ISIS stances for establishing the Islamic State; on the other hands the rival Jamaat al-Ahrar (new group emerged out of TTP after factional fighting among contenders for the slot of Emir) renewed its allegiance to Mullah Omar the supreme leader of Emirate of Afghanistan (the Afghan Taliban). Jamaat al-Ahrar also issued a reconciliatory statement but not declaring allegiance to the Islamic State, the spokesperson said,
“We respect them. They are our Mujahideen brothers. If they ask us for help, we will look into it and decide[57].”
On the hand TTP-Fazalullah faction showed his tilts towards ISIS in a reconciliatory tone,
“Oh our brothers, we are proud of you in your victories. We are with you in your happiness and your sorrow. In these troubled days, we call for your patience and stability, especially now that all your enemies are united against you. Please put all your rivalries behind you… All Muslims in the world have great expectations of you … We are with you, we will provide you with Mujahideen [fighters] and with every possible support[58]”.
In a surprising development Shahidullah Shahid the spokesperson of TTP along with chief of TTP Orakzai tribal region Hafiz Sayed Khan, TTP Khyber Agency leader Gul Zaman, chief of TTP Peshawar Mufti Hasan, TTP head of Hangu Khalid Mansoor and chief of TTP Kurram agency announced pledging allegiance to Islamic State caliph Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. In his statement Shahid said,
“I declare allegiance to the Caliph of Muslims, Amirul Momineen Abu Bakar al Baghdadi al Qarshi al Hussaini. I will listen and follow his every instruction whatever the situation may have been. This allegiance is neither from the TTP or its leader Maulvi Fazlullah. This is only from me and five leaders,….. I appeal to the Ameerul Momineen to accept my allegiance.[59]”
Marred with factional infighting the TTP received a severe blow when its key leaders left the agglomerate of tribal Islamist groups to form Jamaat al-Ahrar in August[60]. The TTP high command had developed major difference over the leadership slot after the death of former Emir Hakeemullah Mehsud in a drone strike in November 2013. The defection of TTP (Fazalullah) is a major setback for Al-Qaeda as Fazalullah, the notorious butcher of Swat valley was one of the key Al-Qaeda operative in northern Pakistan. On the other hand the shifting of sides Fazalullah Group leaders is also disturbing for Pakistani security analysts.
Conclusion
The phenomenal growth of ISIS has shocked everyone. The sudden and unchecked march of ISIS militants has amazed the jihadis worldwide and many as a result are eager to join ISIS. A little indulgence may due to analyse reasons for joining ISIS. A good number of jihadi groups have pledged allegiance to ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and more are calculating their options.
Above all things let us not forget that ISIS is not a new phenomenon and has been in jihadi business (as Al-Qaeda franchise before parting ways with Al-Qaeda in 2013) since 2003. All the signs of the time indicate that the ISIS would push Al-Qaeda for further competition. On the other hand the fact of the matter is that the jihadi universe of Al-Qaeda is too vast (more than 60 countries)and may not be able to get influenced easily. The jihadi groups joining ISIS are either too small or novices in the field of Islamist terrorism and pledging allegiance to ISIS in order to get fame and brand value. Therefore it would be wise to say that ISIS must endeavour to lure in bigger and more influential jihadi groups into its fold in order to dethrone Al-Qaeda.
Dr Farhan Zahid is an associate research fellow at CRSS. A police officer by profession, Dr.Zahid did his Ph.D. in Counter Terrorism from University of Brussels, Belgium.Dr Zahid has authored more than 20 research papers and articles. He writes on counter-terrorism, al-Qaeda, Pakistani al- Qaeda-linked groups, and Islamist violent non-state actors in Pakistan, Jihadi Ideologies and the Afghan Taliban.
[1] For details about AQIS see, Farhan Zahid, “A Profile of Asim Umar: Amir of Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent”, Aberfoyle International Security, October 2014, available at: http://www.aberfoylesecurity.com/?p=940
[2] Patrick Goodenough, Pledge allegiance to New ‘Caliph’, ISIS demands of World’s Muslims in Ramadan Declaration”, CNS News, June 29, 2014, available at: http://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/patrick-goodenough/pledge-allegiance-new-caliph-isis-demands-world-s-muslims-ramadan
[3] “Islamic State’s Global Affiliates: Interactive World Map”, Intercenter.com, September 29 2014
[4] “Alleged TTP Faction Official Abtalul Islam Media Pledge to IS”, SITE Monitoring Service Enterprise, July 11, 2014, available at: https://ent.siteintelgroup.com/Multimedia/alleged-ttp-faction-official-and-abtalul-islam-media-pledge-to-is.html
[5] “Shaykh Muhaddith Abu Usama Musaid bin Bashir, a well-respected Scholar in Sudan give bayah to IS”, Veooz Pakistan Edition, available at: http://www.veooz.com/photos/mHJLNhC.html
[6] “Shaikh Abdullah al-Faisal who supports ISIS pleads for Alan Henning’s life”, 5 Pillarz: What Muslims are thinking?, September 24, 2014, available at: http://www.5pillarz.com/video/sheikh-abdullah-al-faisal-who-supports-isis-pleads-for-alan-hennings-life/
[7] See official Twitter statement of Bilal Chaouachi available at: https://twitter.com/BlackFlagNews/status/483612418111971328
[8] Abdullah Suleiman Ali, “Global jihadists recognize Islamic State”, Al-Monitor English, July 3, 2014, available at: http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2014/07/syria-iraq-isis-islamic-caliphate-global-recognition.html#
[9] Peter Lloyd, “Young Islamic State robs Al-Qaeda of militant prestige”, Reuters US Edition, July 23, 2014, available at: http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/07/23/us-iraq-security-qaeda-idUSKBN0FS0RB20140723
[10] Mark Colvin, “ISIS leader calls for Muslims worldwide to take up arms”, ABC News, July 2, 2014, available at: http://www.abc.net.au/pm/content/2014/s4037890.htm
[11] “The radical Imam who warned Hannity that ‘Sharia Law is coming’ was just arrested in Anti-Terror raids”, Fox News Insider, September 25, 2014, available at: http://foxnewsinsider.com/2014/09/25/radical-imam-anjem-choudary-who-appeared-hannity-arrested-london-terror-raids
[12] “Possible terror group links for Australian cleric”, The ISIS Study Group, August 5, 2014, available at: http://isisstudygroup.com/?p=527
[14] Rob Crilly and Saleem Mehsud, “Pakistani terror group swears allegiance to Islamic State”, The Telegraph, July 9, 2014, available at: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/pakistan/10955563/Pakistani-terror-group-swears-allegiance-to-Islamic-State.html
[15] Sam Webb, “Pakistani terror group becomes first jihadi group to defect to ISIS outside of Middle East as leader Baghdadi influence grows”, Daily Mail, July 9, 2014, available at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2686009/Pakistani-terror-group-jihadi-group-defect-ISIS-outside-Middle-East-leader-al-Baghdadis-influence-grows.html
[16] Agus Suhana and Neil Chatterjee, “Indonesia nabs suspected foreign militants on fake passports”, Bloomberg, September 15 2014
[17] Richard Barrett, “Foreign Fighters in Syria”, The Soufan Group, June 2014
[18] Op Cit. Suhana and Chatterjee
[19] Abu al Bawi, “Indonesian Islamic Activists in Bekasi Declare Support to ISIS”, Abu al-Bawi blogspot, 2014
[20] “Two Hezbollah members killed in Bekaa valley blast”, Al-Arabiya News, March 17, 2014
[21] “Ansar Bait al-Maqdis members escape to Gaza, Marsa Matrouh”, Egypt Independent, December 9, 2013
[22] David Barnett, “Ansar Jerusalem claims tourist bus bombing in Egypt Sinai”, The Long War Journal, February 17 2014
[23] “Video shows beheading of four Egyptians in Sinai”, Al-Arabiya English, August 24, 2014
[24] See statement at Sada Elbalad, June 30, 2014, available at: http://www.el-balad.com/1024731, for English translation see “Ansar Beit al-Maqdis pledges allegiance to ISIS Emir Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi”, The Edinburgh Arabic Initiative, July 2, 2014, available at: http://edinburgharabicinitiative.wordpress.com/2014/07/02/ansar-beit-al-maqdis-pledges-allegiance-to-isis-emir-abu-bakr-al-baghdadi/
[25] Patrick Goodenough, Pledhe allegiance to New ‘Caliph’, ISIS demands of World’s Muslims in Ramadan Declaration”, CNS News, June 29, 2014, available at: http://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/patrick-goodenough/pledge-allegiance-new-caliph-isis-demands-world-s-muslims-ramadan
[26] Ibid
[27] “IS disciplines some emirs to avoid losing base”, Al-Monitor, August 2, 2014, available at: http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/tr/security/2014/09/is-takfiri-caliphate.html#
[28] Ibid
[29] Ibid
[30] “Syrian Arab Army continues successfully operations against terrorism”, Syrian Free Press Network, August 29, 2014, available at: http://syrianfreepress.wordpress.com/2013/08/29/syrian-arab-army-continues-succesfully-operations-against-terrorists/
[31] Mawassi Lachen, “ISIS woos Ansar al-Sharia in Libya”, Magharebia, Casablanca, July 31, 2014, available at: http://magharebia.com/en_GB/articles/awi/features/2014/07/31/feature-01
[32] “Philippine militants pledge allegiance to ISIS”, The Daily Star, Lebanon, August 15, 2014, available at: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Aug-15/267358-philippine-militants-pledge-allegiance-to-isis.ashx#axzz3EZ0uwRjz
[33] Ibid
[34] Rosemarie Francisco and Stuart Grudgings, “ISIS ‘brand’ gains ground among Asian militants”, Al-Arabiya-English, September 26, 2014, , available at: http://english.alarabiya.net/en/perspective/features/2014/09/26/ISIS-brand-gains-ground-among-Asian-militants.html
[35] A planned large scale terrorist operation planned by Ramzi Yousaf and Khalid Shaikh Mohammad in Manila in 1995 to bomb 11 US-bound airliners, assassinate visiting Pope John Paul and assassinate President Bill Clinton.
[36] Rommel Banlaoi, War on Terrorism in Southeast Asia, Rex Book Store, Quezon City, 2004, pp. 1–235
[37] Rosemarie Francisco and Stuart Grudgings, “ISIS ‘brand’ gains ground among Asian militants”, Al-Arabiya-English, September 26, 2014, , available at: http://english.alarabiya.net/en/perspective/features/2014/09/26/ISIS-brand-gains-ground-among-Asian-militants.html
[38] Ibid
[39] Bangsamoro means Moro people. Muslims constitute 9 % of the Philippines population and inhibits areas of Mindanao, Sulu and Palawan.
[40] “BIFF, Abu Sayyaf pledge allegiance to Islamic State jihadists”, GMA News Online, Manila, August 16, 2014, available at: http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/375074/news/nation/biff-abu-sayyaf-pledge-allegiance-to-islamic-state-jihadists
[41] Ibid
[42] “MILF: Umbra Kato’s group not acceptable”, ABS-CBN Central Mindanao, February 2, 2011, available at: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/02/16/11/milf-umbra-kato%E2%80%99s-group-not-acceptable
[43] “Philippine jihadists pledge support to Islamic State”, RT News, August 16, 2014, available at: http://rt.com/news/180736-philippine-jihadists-support-isis/
[44] “Ansar al-Khilafah in the Philippines pledges to IS, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi”, SITE Monitoring Service, August 13, 2014, available at: https://news.siteintelgroup.com/Jihadist-News/ansar-al-khilafah-in-the-philippines-pledges-to-is-abu-bakr-al-baghdadi.html
[45] “Top 10 Most Dangerous Terrorist/Rebel Groups: Group Threat Index (GTI), Intel Center, September 15, 2014
[46] Toni Johnson, “Backgrounder: Boko Haram”, Council on Foreign Relations, August 31, 2011
[47] Farouk Chothia, “Who are Nigeria’s Boko Haram Islamists?”, BBC News, January 11, 2012
[48] “Boko Haram insurgents kill 100 people as they take control of Nigerian town” Guardian, July 19, 2014
[49] “Boko Haram voices support for ISIS’ Baghdadi”, Al-Arabiya News English, July 13, 2014
[50] Cahal Milmo and Tom Withrow, “Boko Haram closes in on its dream of an African Caliphate—and ISIS gives its blessings and advice on strategy”, The Independent, September 8, 2014, available at: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/boko-haram-closes-in-on-its-dream-of-an-african-caliphate–and-isis-gives-its-blessing-and-advice-on-strategy-9719519.html
[51] Ibid
[52] “Al-Qaeda Tunisia offshoot offers backing to ISIS: SITE”, The Daily Star Lebanon, September 20, 2014, available at: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Sep-20/271372-al-qaeda-tunisia-offshoot-offers-backing-to-isis-site.ashx#axzz3EqZXPa9Q
[53] “Tunisian soldiers killed in attack near Algerian border”, BBC News, July 17, 2014, available at: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-28341318
[54] “Al-Tawheed Battalion in Afghanistan-Pakistan region pledges to IS”, SITE Monitoring Service, September 27, 2014
[55] “Yemeni Al-Qaeda leader hails ISIS gains in Iraq”, Al-Arabiya English, August 13, 2014, available at: http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/08/13/Yemeni-Al-Qaeda-leader-hails-ISIS-gains-in-Iraq.html
[56] “Libyan Jihadi Group Expresses Support for ISIS”, SITE Monitoring Service, June 23, 2014
[57] Amir Mir, “TTP’s support for IS disturbing for Pakistan”, The News, October 6, 2014
[58] “Pakistan Taliban pledges support to ISIS as coordinated West-hatred gains momentum”, RT News, October 5, 2014, available at: http://rt.com/news/193268-isis-islamic-taliban-pakistan/
[59] Tahir Khan, “TTP spokesperson, five other leaders declare allegiance to Islamic State”, The Express Tribune, October 14, 2014.
[60] Bill Roggio, “Taliban splinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar forms in north-western Pakistan”, The Long War Journal, August 26, 2014