Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada Emerges: Updates on the New Iraqi Shia Militia Supplying Fighters to Syria. By Phillip Smyth
|
|
- Eileen Chambers
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada Emerges: Updates on the New Iraqi Shia Militia Supplying Fighters to Syria By Phillip Smyth Figure 1: A KSS member salutes the group's flag. When Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada (KSS) first announced their presence to the world, little was known about the organization, its leadership, or its force size. Funerals the group held for three of its fallen fighters in May not only announced the group s existence, but also pointed to a strong link with Iran. However, following these funerals, little was heard from the group. Nevertheless, it would appear that starting in August the organization has fully redeveloped its messaging and online propaganda. This campaign has included well- organized and professional group funerals for members killed fighting in Syria, brand new and far- less amateurish imagery, and the introduction of some more unique features in KSS s propaganda. Even the group s uniforms have undergone a type of remake, featuring the KSS s logo and patches showing their fighter s commitments to Defending Sayydiah Zaynab. The group has also been more open when it came to the numbers of its fighters deployed to Syria. In an Al- Sharqiya interview held with KSS s information office, the group claimed to have sent 500 members
2 to Syria. 1 Public announcements by the group have also established that since July, KSS has deployed a number of combat units to more rural zones around Damascus, particularly the frontlines in East Ghouta. Additionally, via official websites belonging to the Badr Organization Military Wing, it is possible that a closer relationship exists between KSS and the Badr Organization. Since Badr did not announce its involvement in Syria until July, 2013, this may be a signal that KSS was used as a front group to send Badr fighters to Syria. In terms of a social media presence, KSS has tried to reinvent itself. When the group s more private group page was removed from Facebook, the organization simultaneously established a new Facebook page and more private profiles to disseminate photos and other information about the group. Since August, KSS has posted 1-4 unique new photographs of their activities in Syria. Additionally, other pro- Shia militia- in- Syria Facebook pages have re- posted their photographs. Social media stature aside, the group s rapid public growth, increased professionalism, combat deployments, and growing presence in Iraq beyond its original base in Basra, demonstrates KSS as a rapidly growing Shia militia force. It is likely KSS will continue to announce its militant activities in Syria. The Fighters The fighters of Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada appear to be uniformed with clear identifiable insignia. The combatants carry arms which are familiar to other Shia militia groups, particularly the PKM machine gun, RPG- 7s, Kalashnikov- type assault rifles, and the popular SVD- style sniper rifle. KSS fighters have also been photographed with anti- material sniper rifles. 1 See: August 27, 2013.
3 Figure 2: A KSS fighter with a customized Kalashnikov- type rifle and an SVD style sniper rifle.
4 Figure 3: A KSS fighter poses with a mortar.
5 Figure 4: A KSS fighter poses on rubble with an SVD style sniper rifle. Note the KSS logo patch.
6 Figure 5: A KSS fighter holds an RPG- 7.
7 Figure 6: KSS fighters pose with a PKM machine gun.
8 Figure 7: A small unit of KSS fighters holding a mixture of Kalashnikov type rifles, an SVD style sniper rifle, and a PKM machine gun
9 Figure 8: This KSS fighter appears to be holding a Steyr HS.50 style,.50 caliber bolt action anti- material sniper rifle. The rifle could also be an Iranian copy of the HS.50.
10 Figure 9: Diya Issawi s brother (left), pictured in a white turban of commonly found with Shia clerics. He was listed by KSS
11 Figure 10: KSS members Enjoy a simple modest lunch. This photo was issued by the group to demonstrate the humility of their fighters. The KSS s New Martyrs
12 On August 20, a main Facebook page which publishes information about Shia militia operations and deaths in Syria, claimed that Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada was operating in East Ghouta. During their operations in the area, the page reported three fighters as killed- in- action, with another five missing (listed in the post as, Fate unknown ). On August 24, KSS released eight martyrdom announcements in the form of more professionally designed graphics. The photographs were first released on the KSS and then the Badr Organization Military Wing s official Facebook page. The posted images presumably show the eight fighters who were killed or who were missing in East Ghouta, in Rif Dimashq. It is important to note that on August 21, East Ghouta was also the reported as the scene of the deadliest chemical weapons attack within Syria. 2 According to American Military University s In Homeland Security Blog chief correspondent and chemical weapons expert, William Tucker, it is possible these KSS fighters were, bracketing the kill box. 3 Meaning, they had generally surrounded the area where the chemical weapons were used and then attacked any Syrian rebel elements which may have tried to breakout. However, a video emerged on September 1 st showing some of the KSS fighters being killed in an assault by rebel forces. A longer video of the engagement was released on September 7 th. The KSS fighters were reportedly stationed in what rebels referred to as a train station in East Ghouta. This would suggest that some of the KSS fighters may have been guarding transportation links in the area. ** Warning: Graphic Imagery ** [Video titled Rebel Fighters Kill Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada Members In East Ghouta ] In the video, it is clear to see that KSS fighters openly wear the insignia for their organization during combat operations. Some KSS and possibly Hizballah fighters are shown with Shia Islamic paraphernalia. One card removed from the pocket of a dead fighter featured a stylized photo of the assassinated Hizballah terror- leader, Imad Mughniyeh. 4 2 See: opposition- claims killed- in- chemical- attack.html, August 21, Personal conversation, August 27, H/T to othm_ali for sending me videos of rebel operations which killed the KSS fighters.
13 Figure 11: Eight of the dead KSS members are featured on this poster. Name: Amir al- Badlawi Death Announced: September 5, 2013
14 Name: Muhammed Radi al- Shumaylawi Death Announced: August 24, Funeral held on August 27, 2013.
15 Name: Al- Said Hasan Ali Farhoud al- Furaydawi Death Announced: August 11, 2013
16 Name: Sejjad al- Shibani Death Announced: August 23, 2013, reportedly killed on August 20, 2013, funeral reportedly held on August 27, 2013.
17 Name: Walid al- Abudi Death Announced: August 23, 2013, reportedly killed on August 20, Name: Ali Hamza al- Deraghi al- Sadiqi Death Announced: August 23, 2013, reportedly killed on August 20, 2013, funeral reportedly held on August 27, 2013.
18 Figure 12: Sadiqi is shown in a car with what may be another KSS member and a Kalashnikov style rifle.
19 Figure 13: An official KSS release of Sadiqi with other KSS fighters. Name: Zulfiqar al- Raseetmawi Death Announced: August 25, 2013, reportedly killed on August 20, 2013, funeral reportedly held on August 27, 2013.
20 Name: Muhammed Abd al- Husayn al- Faridawi Death Announced: August 25, 2013, reportedly killed on August 20, 2013, funeral reportedly held on August 27, Name: Ala al- Ka bi Death Announced: August 23, 2013, reportedly killed on August 20, 2013, funeral reportedly held on August 27, 2013.
21 Name: Watheq Hashem al- Anzi Death Announced: August 23, 2013, reportedly killed on August 20, 2013, funeral reportedly held on August 27, 2013.
22 Figure 14: An officially produced martyrdom post Name: Ali Sami al- Zubaydi Death Announced: August 23, 2013, reportedly killed on August 20, 2013, funeral reportedly held on August 27, Notes: Zubaydi was one of the few KSS dead who had other photos of him in Syria uploaded to a number of pro- Shia militia Facebook pages.
23 Figure 15: Zubaydi is pictured smoking a cigarette while sitting with another KSS fighter in Syria.
24 Figure 16: Zubaydi is shown with other KSS fighters.
25 Figure 17: KSS held a funeral for four of their members in Basra, Iraq on August 27, The group funeral mimicked those held by other Iranian- backed Shia groups operating in Syria. Four caskets can be seen mounted to the tops of white Chevrolet SUVs. Figure 18: The KSS honor guard surrounds a casket and flies flags belonging to the group.
26 Figure 19: Posters of Iran's late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khomeini (left) and Iran s current Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei (right) are carried by the honor guard for the August 27 th funeral.
27 Figure 20: The KSS honor guard holds posters in honoring their fallen and the Ayatollahs Khomeini and Khamenei.
28 Figure 21: An Iraqi Shia woman strikes a grief pose in between two SUVs carrying the caskets of KSS s dead. The poster behind the woman features 11 KSS fighters who were killed in Syria. The Ayatollah Khamenei is also shown on this poster. Figure 22: Iraqi Shia women are shown grieving next to the convoy of SUVs carrying Muhammed Abd al- Husayn al- Faridawi s casket.
29 Figure 23: The convoy of KSS dead driving through Iraq s Diyala Province. According to analyst Aymenn Jawad al- Tamimi, this convoy was reported by pro- Iraqi Sunni protest pages as having taken place in Meqdadiya. Figure 24: Another shot of the group funeral for four of KSS's members. Gruesome Uploads: KSS Promotes Their Kills
30 ** Warning: Graphic Imagery ** One unusual feature found in KSS s photographic propaganda from June- August, 2013 has been the group s images featuring dead anti- Assad fighters. Compared to other Iraqi Shia organizations which have contributed fighters, KSS has posted a disproportionate amount of images promoting their Kills in relation to photographs of their own fighters. The posting of graphic images of dead Syrian rebels has actually been a growing trend with the group since the first image- posts by KSS appeared online on various social media outlets. In fact, the only film purporting to show KSS fighters in Syria actually showed them standing over and inspecting their dead foes. In a number of these photos, KSS militiamen are shown putting their feet on the faces of dead rebel militants. In some cases, captions for some of the more gruesome photographs mocked dead rebel fighters. One of the photographed dead rebels, whose torso had been ripped open and internal organs were exposed, had Hahaha written for the photo caption. Other graphic photos (note: These have not been included) have shown a rebel s brain spilling from his head. Captions often included accusations that dead rebels were nothing but, Saudi terrorists.
31 Figure 25: A KSS fighter stand next to dead rebels.
32 Figure 26: Another photo of a KSS fighter placing his foot on the face of a dead rebel fighter. Note the black headband often worn by Sunni Islamist elements.
33
34 Figure 27: A KSS member s boot is shown pressed against a dead rebel s face.
35 Figure 28: A KSS member steps on the face of a dead rebel fighter.
36 Figure 29: KSS fighters pose with Syrian rebels they have killed.
37 Figure 30: A collection of dead rebels is claimed by KSS.
38
39 Figure 31: A KSS photo showing numerous dead rebels.
40 Figure 32: KSS fighters pose with a man they claim was a rebel fighter. Khamenei, Hakim, Khomeini & Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada Unlike other Iraqi Shia organizations which have sent fighters to Syria, the main generally the only- - - religious figure the KSS has featured on its propaganda imagery has been that of Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei. In some instances, Ayatollah Khomeini is shown. This is a sharp contrast from groups such as Asa ib Ahl al- Haq, which has shown Iraq s late Grand Ayatollah Muhammed Sadiq Sadr along with Khamenei. In fact, only one KSS poster has shown an Iraqi clerical leader other than Khamenei or Khomeini, Ayatollah Muhammed Baqir Hakim. Hakim was instrumental in the formation of the Badr Brigade, which today has morphed into the Badr Organization (see section below for possible KSS connections to the Badr Organization).
41 Figure 33: A KSS fighter holds the group s flag as he and other KSS fighters look into the sky. In the sky, Khamenei smiles down at them. The Zaynab shrine s golden dome can be seen by Khamenei. Figure 34: Khamenei is shown waving to KSS fighters as they stand in front of the golden dome of the Zaynab shrine.
42 Figure 35: Khamenei and Khomeini smile down on three KSS fighters who were killed in Syria.
43 Figure 36: Martyrdom poster for Hadi Jasm al- 'Azawi. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei is shown on the right. Ayatollah Muhammed Baqir al- Hakim, the pro- Iranian founding member and leader of the Badr Brigade, is shown on the left. The Badr Connection Another development which started in late- July, 2013 was the appearance of growing links between Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada and Iraq s Badr Organization. Around this time, the Badr Organization formally announced it had sent forces to Syria. The Badr Organization Military Wing s official Facebook page has not only published a number of KSS deaths, but has also posted special photographs implying possible joint Badr- KSS cooperation in Syria. Making the connection more unique was the fact that other Iranian- backed Shia organizations operating in Syria have not published similar styles of photos. The Badr Organization Military Wing has also published many KSS announcements regarding deaths of KSS fighters.
44 Figure 37: An official KSS poster released on the Badr Organization Armed Wing s Facebook page. This could suggest that the fighters found in Kata ib Sayyid al- Shuhada have some type of connection to the Badr Organization s Armed Wing.
45 Figure 38: A Badr Organization Military Wing photo showing a fighter and featuring the combined symbols of the Badr Organization and KSS.
46 Figure 39: Another photo showing militiamen and a combined KSS- Badr Organization logo.
Liwa a al- Imam al- Hasan al- Mujtaba: A Shia Militia Fighting in Rif Dimashq/Ghouta
Liwa a al- Imam al- Hasan al- Mujtaba: A Shia Militia Fighting in Rif Dimashq/Ghouta By Phillip Smyth (psmyth@jihadology.net) Figure 1: A vidcap of the LIHM's logo. The symbol reads: "Liwa'a al- Imam al-
More informationLeader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and Iranian proxy groups.
Breaking Badr: Is Iraq s Badr Organization Operating In Syria? By Phillip Smyth (psmyth@jihadology.net) Due to many public funerals, a number of Iranian- backed Iraqi organizations (Asa ib Ahl al- Haq,
More informationRemember the war against Franco? We had all the good songs.
The Songs of Liwa a Abu Fadl al- Abbas: Militant Iraqi Shia Music & Syria By Phillip Smyth (psmyth@jihadology.net) Remember the war against Franco? That's the kind where each of us belongs. Though he may
More informationLiwa a Zulfiqar: Birth of A New Shia Militia in Syria? By Phillip Smyth
Liwa a Zulfiqar: Birth of A New Shia Militia in Syria? By Phillip Smyth (psmyth@jihadology.net) On June 5, 2013, the same day Lebanese Hizballah declared victory at the Battle of Qusayr, a page for a new
More informationIran s Losses In the 35 th Province (Syria), Part 1
Iran s Losses In the 35 th Province (Syria), Part 1 Syria is [Iran s] 35th province and a strategic province for us. If the enemy attacks us and wants to take either Syria or Khuzestan, the priority for
More informationWhat is the Liwa a Abu Fadl al- Abbas (LAFA)?: Assessing Syria s Shia International Brigade Through Their Social Media Presence
What is the Liwa a Abu Fadl al- Abbas (LAFA)?: Assessing Syria s Shia International Brigade Through Their Social Media Presence By Phillip Smyth Making its first appearances in the fall of 2012, Liwa a
More informationHizballah Cavalcade: Hizballah s Multiplying Qusayr Martyrs. By Phillip Smyth
Hizballah Cavalcade: Hizballah s Multiplying Qusayr Martyrs By Phillip Smyth Figure 1: Hizballah fighters pose under a road sign pointing to the Syrian city of Qusayr. (Source: Facebook). On April 30,
More informationAPPENDIX 8. Internet Recruitment, Pilgrimage, and Fundraising Poster and Video Chart
APPENDIX 8. Internet Recruitment, Pilgrimage, and Fundraising Poster and Video Chart ORGANIZATION Liwa Abu Fadl al-abbas (Syria) Iranian Recruitment (for LAFA) Iranian Recruitment (for LAFA) Faylaq Waad
More information"Military action will bring great costs for the region," Rouhani said, and "it is necessary to apply all efforts to prevent it."
USA TODAY, 29 Aug 2013. Syrian allies Iran and Russia are working together to prevent a Western military attack on Syria, the Iranian president said, as Russia said it is sending warships to the Mediterranean,
More informationFor Iraq, the year 2014 is a painful memory. A band of jihadists, known as the
Rise of the Militiamen Paramilitaries Wield Power in a land Where Saddam hussein Once Ran a brutal One-Man Show By Renad Mansour For Iraq, the year 2014 is a painful memory. A band of jihadists, known
More informationIranian Participation in the Liberation of Fallujah
May 30, 2016 Iranian Participation in the Liberation of Fallujah Dr. Raz Zimmt Qasem Soleimani, second from left, in the operations room of the Shi'ite militias engaged in fighting alongside the Iraqi
More informationIsraeli air strikes against Syria biggest since 1982
Israeli air strikes against Syria biggest since 1982 Syrian civil war What happened? Israel says it has inflicted huge damage on Syrian air defences after one of its fighter jets was brought down during
More informationSpotlight on Global Jihad
Spotlight on Global Jihad May 31 - June 6, 2018 Main events of the week The Syrian army announced that it had completed preparations for the takeover of southern Syria and that 40,000 soldiers were waiting
More information(P2) The United States aims to help advise and train Iraqi and Kurdish forces battling Islamic State fighters who swept into much of northern Iraq.
[World News ]Obama Just Doubled Down On The Battle Against ISIS (P1) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The US military has drawn up plans to significantly increase the number of American forces in Iraq, which now
More informationIran Iraq War ( ) Causes & Consequences
Iran Iraq War (1980 1988) Causes & Consequences In 1980 Saddam Hussein decided to invade Iran. Why? Religion Iran was governed by Muslim clerics (theocracy). By contrast, Iraq was a secular state. The
More informationOmnibus Poll April 29-30, 2013
1. How much have you heard about the ongoing violence in Syria? Heard a lot 34% 43% 27% 22% 25% 38% 55% 27% 38% 37% 37% 17% Heard a little 48% 46% 49% 56% 48% 47% 38% 50% 45% 48% 47% 51% all 18% 11% 25%
More informationWill Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan Form a Coalition Against Iran?
12 17 March 2015 Will Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan Form a Coalition Against Iran? Lindsay Hughes FDI Research Analyst Indian Ocean Research Programme Key Points Iran has troops and allied militias
More informationWith friends like these... Is Syria seeing a spill over from Iraq?
With friends like these... Is Syria seeing a spill over from Iraq? Team On 24 April 2012, Abdel-Ghani Jawhar, head of Fatah-al-Islam, Lebanon's most wanted militant Islamist terrorist, was reportedly killed
More informationThe Islamic State Strikes Back
The Islamic State Strikes Back Dec. 14, 2016 IS capture of Palmyra has pulled the cloak back on Russia s vulnerability. By Jacob L. Shapiro The small Syrian city of Palmyra, well-known for its ancient
More informationSyria's Civil War Explained
Syria's Civil War Explained By Al Jazeera, adapted by Newsela staff on 02.22.17 Word Count 1,055 Level 1000L A displaced Syrian child, fleeing from Deir Ezzor besieged by Islamic State (IS) group fighters,
More informationBritish fanatics heading to Iraq to join ISIS militants in their HUNDREDS amid fears 'they could bring terror to UK'
British fanatics heading to Iraq to join ISIS militants in their HUNDREDS amid fears 'they could bring terror to UK' British Muslims are heading to Syria to fight with extremist rebel group, ISIS Now hundreds
More informationOverview. Iran is keeping a low profile with regards to the Northern Shield operation carried
Spotlight on Iran December 2, 2018 December 16, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview Iran is keeping a low profile with regards to the Northern Shield operation carried out by the Israeli Defense Forces
More informationOverview. Diplomatic efforts concerning the settlements of the Syrian war continue: In early
Spotlight on Iran November 4, 2018 November 18, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview Diplomatic efforts concerning the settlements of the Syrian war continue: In early November, the envoy of the Russian
More informationSyria's Civil War Explained
Syria's Civil War Explained By Al Jazeera, adapted by Newsela staff on 02.22.17 Word Count 1,055 Level 1000L A displaced Syrian child, fleeing from Deir Ezzor besieged by Islamic State (IS) group fighters,
More informationSyria's Civil War Explained
Syria's Civil War Explained By Al Jazeera, adapted by Newsela staff on 02.22.17 Word Count 675 Level 800L A displaced Syrian child, fleeing from Deir Ezzor besieged by Islamic State (IS) group fighters,
More informationUNCLASSIFIED//FOUO. Terrorism Social Media Promote Jihadist Group, Attacks in Syria
Open Source Center Analysis 14 May 2012 Terrorism Social Media Promote Jihadist Group, Attacks in Syria OSC has recently observed two Facebook pages and a popular blog that promote the recently established
More informationRegional Issues. Conflicts in the Middle East. Importance of Oil. Growth of Islamism. Oil as source of conflict in Middle East
Main Idea Reading Focus Conflicts in the Middle East Regional issues in the Middle East have led to conflicts between Israel and its neighbors and to conflicts in and between Iran and Iraq. How have regional
More informationDisintegrating Iraq: Implications for Saudi National Security
Disintegrating Iraq: Implications for Saudi National Security Washington, DC - November 9th Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars Nawaf Obaid Managing Director Challenges Confronting Iraq Social,
More informationSyria's Civil War Explained
Syria's Civil War Explained By Al Jazeera, adapted by Newsela staff on 02.22.17 Word Count 1,166 A displaced Syrian child, fleeing from Deir Ezzor besieged by Islamic State (IS) group fighters, hangs on
More informationThe Establishment of ISIS in Syria in the Lower Euphrates Valley
The Establishment of ISIS in Syria in the Lower Euphrates Valley February 28, 2018 Background In November 2017, the city of Albukamal near the Syrian-Iraqi border was taken over by the Syrian army and
More informationComment - The Damascus December 2009 Bus Explosion December 7, 2009 Alessandro Bacci reports from Damascus, Syria
Comment - The Damascus December 2009 Bus Explosion December 7, 2009 Alessandro Bacci reports from Damascus, Syria On the morning of December 3, 2009 an explosion occurred to a bus parked at a gas station
More informationU.S. Admits Airstrike in Syria, Meant to Hit ISIS, Killed Syrian Troops
http://nyti.ms/2cxkw1u MIDDLE EAST U.S. Admits Airstrike in Syria, Meant to Hit ISIS, Killed Syrian Troops By ANNE BARNARD and MARK MAZZETTI SEPT. 17, 2016 BEIRUT, Lebanon The United States acknowledged
More informationIranian forces and Shia militias in Syria
BICOM Briefing Iranian forces and Shia militias in Syria March 2018 Introduction On Wednesday, 28 February a US media outlet reported that Iran was building a new military base 16 km northwest of the Syrian
More informationIranian Targets Hit in Syria by the IDF and Responses in Iranian Media
Iran Following the Latest Confrontation with Israel in the Syrian Arena Dr. Raz Zimmt January 24, 2019 Iranian Targets Hit in Syria by the IDF and Responses in Iranian Media On January 21, 2019, the Israeli
More informationWeekly Conflict Summary
Weekly Conflict Summary May 05-10, 2017 During the reporting period, elements of an Astana de-escalation plan were enacted while pro-government forces advanced in Hama and the Eastern Ghouta region of
More informationCUFI BRIEFING HISTORY - IDEOLOGY - TERROR
CUFI BRIEFING HEZBOLLAH - THE PARTY OF ALLAH HISTORY - IDEOLOGY - TERROR Who is Hezbollah Hezbollah, an Arabic name that means Party of Allah (AKA: Hizbullah, Hezbullah, Hizbollah), is a large transnational
More informationYemen Conflict Fact Sheet
Yemen Conflict Fact Sheet Executive Summary The current conflict in Yemen is comprised of numerous actors that are in constant conflict with one another in an attempt to gain control of the state, or at
More informationA fragile alliance: how the crisis in Egypt caused a rift within the anti-syrian regime block
University of Iowa From the SelectedWorks of Ahmed E SOUAIAIA Summer August 25, 2013 A fragile alliance: how the crisis in Egypt caused a rift within the anti-syrian regime block Ahmed E SOUAIAIA, University
More informationIslam and Religion in the Middle East
Islam and Religion in the Middle East The Life of Young Muhammad Born in 570 CE to moderately influential Meccan family Early signs that Muhammad would be Prophet Muhammad s mother (Amina) hears a voice
More informationOverview. As tensions mount between Iran and the United States, the Commander of the Qods
Spotlight on Iran July 22 August 5, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview As tensions mount between Iran and the United States, the Commander of the Qods Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC),
More informationThe Proxy War for and Against ISIS
The Proxy War for and Against ISIS Dr Andrew Mumford University of Nottingham @apmumford Summary of talk Assessment of proxy wars Brief history of proxy wars Current trends The proxy war FOR Islamic State
More informationSpotlight on Global Jihad
Spotlight on Global Jihad June 28 July 4, 2018 Main events of the week The main event of this past week was the progress of the Syrian army in the eastern enclave of the rebel organizations (east and northeast
More informationSyria's Civil War Explained
Syria's Civil War Explained By Al Jazeera on 02.22.17 Word Count 1,002 A displaced Syrian child, fleeing from Deir Ezzor besieged by Islamic State (IS) group fighters, hangs on the back of a woman as she
More information. 2. Select region - 5. the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). It seeks to establish a regional,
1. Go to: globalawarenessmap.org. 2. Select region - 5 3. Select country -Iraq/Syria 1. ISIS EMERGENCE & GOALS: GOALS: These questions are designed to increase student's knowledge of the ISISterrorist
More informationWeekly Conflict Summary
Weekly Conflict Summary April 20-26, 2017 During this reporting period, conflict in northern Syria escalated with Turkish airstrikes against Kurdish positions, the opposition expanded operations in southeast
More informationOverview. and representatives from about 100 countries, including the Deputy Secretary
Spotlight on Iran November 18 December 2, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview The 32 nd annual Islamic Unity Conference was held in Tehran and attended by Iranian senior officials and representatives from
More informationOverview. The focal point of the week was the visit to Damascus of Iranian Minister of Defense,
Spotlight on Iran August 19 September 2, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview The focal point of the week was the visit to Damascus of Iranian Minister of Defense, Amir Hatami. During the two-day visit,
More informationOverview 1. On June 29, 2014, ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-baghdadi declared the establishment of the
The Collapse of the Islamic State: What Comes Next? November 18, 2017 Overview 1 On June 29, 2014, ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-baghdadi declared the establishment of the Islamic Caliphate by the Islamic State
More informationII. From civil war to regional confrontation
II. From civil war to regional confrontation Following the initial legitimate demands of the Syrian people, the conflict took on the regional and international dimensions of a long term conflict. Are neighboring
More informationOverview. The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei, used his annual speech on the occasion of the
Spotlight on Iran March 18 March 28, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei, used his annual speech on the occasion of the Iranian New Year (Nowruz) to justify, once
More informationLOL!!! Hezbollah Is The Party Of Satan Saudi Wahhabist Minister Says. Zionist Jerusalem Post Gleefully Reports! By The UglyTruth
LOL!!! Hezbollah Is The Party Of Satan Saudi Wahhabist Minister Says. Zionist Jerusalem Post Gleefully Reports! By The UglyTruth [Editorial Comment by Ugly Truth: ED-NOTE Over 1400 years ago, the last
More informationOverview. While Iran continues to downplay its involvement in the ongoing campaign in eastern
Spotlight on Iran February 18 March 4, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview While Iran continues to downplay its involvement in the ongoing campaign in eastern Ghouta on the outskirts of Damascus, the Chief
More informationAn Overview of Chinese Fighters and Anti-Chinese Militant Groups in Syria and Iraq
An Overview of Chinese Fighters and Anti-Chinese Militant Groups in Syria and Iraq The Jamestown Foundation Jacob Zenn Bo Wang, a purported Chinese citizen fighting in Syria. (Credit: Youtube) In July,
More informationShia Afghan Fighters in Syria
(/) Home (/) Menu Search (/search) SyriaSource (/blogs/syriasource) Amplifying Syrian voices SyriaSource APRIL 19, 2017 Shia Afghan Fighters in Syria BY ALI ALFONEH Photo: Liwa Fatemiyoun near Palmyra.
More informationEducating for hatred and violence against Israel in a performance held in a kindergarten sponsored by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ)
Educating for hatred and violence against Israel in a performance held in a kindergarten sponsored by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) December 30 2017 Overview Since Donald Trump declared, on December
More informationIraqi Shi'i Communities in Transition. Kieran Flynn, Trinity College Dublin
BRISMES Annual Conference 2012 Revolution and Revolt: Understanding the Forms and Causes of Change 26-28 March 2012, London School of Economics and Political Science Iraqi Shi'i Communities in Transition
More informationCRS Report for Congress
Order Code RS22323 Updated September 29, 2006 CRS Report for Congress Received through the CRS Web Summary Iran s Influence in Iraq Kenneth Katzman Specialist in Middle Eastern Affairs Foreign Affairs,
More informationPerceiving the Shia Dimension of Terrorism. Hanin Ghaddar
Georgetown Security Studies Review 15 Perceiving the Shia Dimension of Terrorism Hanin Ghaddar In trying to figure out what to do about ISIS, the international community seems to have forgotten the other
More informationLet me begin, just very shortly and very quickly, with what I did during the first five months when I went there and why I was in the Red Zone.
Thank you very much for the kind words. It is always a pleasure to be here in New York. I was walking this afternoon. It reminded me of when I was still working here. It is always a pleasure. During the
More informationOverview. Iran, Russia and Turkey continue to negotiate regarding Idlib s fate. Iran publicly
Spotlight on Iran September 9 September 20, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview Iran, Russia and Turkey continue to negotiate regarding Idlib s fate. Iran publicly welcomed the agreement reached in Sochi
More informationMurad's War: An Afghan face to the Syrian conflict
Murad's War: An Afghan face to the Syrian conflict Author : Christoph Reuter Published: 26 June 2015 Downloaded: 6 September 2018 Download URL: https://www.afghanistan-analysts.org/murads-war-an-afghan-face-to-the-syrian-conflict/?format=pdf
More informationIranian Responses to Growing Tensions with Israel and an Initial Assessment of Their Implications from an Iranian Standpoint. Dr.
Iranian Responses to Growing Tensions with Israel and an Initial Assessment of Their Implications from an Iranian Standpoint February 11, 2018 Dr. Raz Zimmt Summary of Events The escalation along Israel
More informationOverview. Iranian officials continue to react to the alleged Israeli strike on the Syrian air force base T-
Spotlight on Iran April 15- April 29, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview Iranian officials continue to react to the alleged Israeli strike on the Syrian air force base T- 4: the deputy commander of the
More informationISIL in Iraq: A disease or just the symptoms? A public opinion analysis. Second wave. Munqith M.Dagher IIACSS, Iraq
ISIL in Iraq: A disease or just the symptoms? A public opinion analysis Second wave Munqith M.Dagher IIACSS, Iraq Methodology Nationwide poll (2000 interviews)on July 2014. 200 phone interviews in Mosul(controlled
More information(U//FOUO) ISIL Social Media Messaging Resonating with Western Youth
27 February 2015 (U//FOUO) ISIL Social Media Messaging Resonating with Western Youth (U) Scope (U//FOUO) This Joint Intelligence Bulletin (JIB) is intended to provide information on a continuing trend
More informationIRAQI INSURGENT MEDIA: THE WAR OF IMAGES AND IDEAS
4 Producers 4.1 Iraqi Insurgent Groups 4.1.1 Islamic State of Iraq (ISI/Al-Qaeda) Area of operations: Al-Anbar, Diyala, Kirkuk, Salah Al-Din, Ninawah, and parts of Babil and Wasit governorates. The Mujahidin
More informationIran's Guards on War Footing -- London. Spy Drone Capture is US, Israel Setback By: DEBKAfile / BeforeIt'sNews.com / December 6, 2011
Adventist Heritage From: Charles E. Wheeling on behalf of Charles E. Wheeling Sent: Tuesday, December 06, 2011 7:46 PM To: Adventist Heritage
More informationA US-Iran Race to Control the Damascus-Baghdad Highway. Joe Macaron
A US-Iran Race to Control the Damascus-Baghdad Highway May 31, 2017 A US-Iran Race to Control the Damascus-Baghdad Highway The Syrian war has recently taken a new and decisive turn. The military focus
More informationOverview. Tehran continues to deny Israeli reports about Iranian involvement in the clashes last
Spotlight on Iran February 4 February 18, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview Tehran continues to deny Israeli reports about Iranian involvement in the clashes last weekend in Syria, which were triggered
More informationAug 26, 1920: 19th Amendment adopted (Women get the right to vote
Bell Work Agenda: 9-11/The World We Live In Homework: None Objective: Students will examine the events that led to the 9-11 attacks. 1. Why would 19 Middle Eastern men fly airplanes into buildings? (write
More informationMain Points Spotlight on Iran is an Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center bulletin illuminating Iran's activities to
Spotlight on Iran 1 October 9-23, 2016 Editor: Dr. Raz Zimmt Main Points ü Hassan Firouzabadi, senior military advisor to the supreme leader and former chief of staff of the Iranian armed forces, told
More informationOverview. Against the backdrop of the latest escalation between Iran and Israel and Israeli threats to
Spotlight on Iran ` January 27, 2019 - February 10, 2019 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview Against the backdrop of the latest escalation between Iran and Israel and Israeli threats to continue acting against
More informationThe Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) leadership recently visited Iran and Lebanon to meet with
January 3, 2019 Senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hamas figures praise Iran's military support and threaten that in the next war the rocket fire from the Gaza Strip will reach all the cities in Israel
More informationSpotlight on Global Jihad April 18-25, 2018
Spotlight on Global Jihad April 18-25, 2018 Main events of the week The main event of the week was the expansion of the Syrian regime s control over the Damascus region. On April 19, 2018, the Syrian army
More informationIslamic State (of Iraq and the Levant)
Islamic State (of Iraq and the Levant) All team decisions are taken by the Caliph, and by the Caliph alone. Emirs may recommend particular actions. If an LEADER token is eliminated on the map there is
More informationJoint Crisis Committe. The Iran-Iraq War. Deha Boran Bahçuvan & Ali Doruk Bekatlı
Joint Crisis Committe Deha Boran Bahçuvan & Ali Doruk Bekatlı Alman Lisesi Model United Nations 2018 Introduction The Iran-Iraq war was an armed confictt which began with the invasion of Iran by Iraq on
More informationThe Islamic State's Fallback
The Islamic State's Fallback June 8, 2017 Its strategy is changing, and our model must change with it. By Jacob L. Shapiro The Islamic State was the world s first jihadist group to make control of territory
More informationShi'ite Foreign Fighters in Syria
Shi'ite Foreign Fighters in Syria Group picture of Shi'ite foreign fighters in the Abu al-fadhel al-abbas Brigade, a military framework composed mainly of militia operatives from Iraq. In white is Qassim
More informationOverview. February 4, 2013
February 4, 2013 Education for terrorism: Hamas increases its military and propaganda activities among Gazan youth to raise a younger generation able to continue its anti-israeli path of terrorism and
More informationPolicy Paper October. Iraq s Fifth Column. Iran s Proxy Network
Nicholas A. Heras Policy Paper 2017-02 October Iraq s Fifth Column Iran s Proxy Network 2017 The Middle East Institute The Middle East Institute 1319 18th Street NW Washington, D.C. 20036 Follow MEI: @MiddleEastInst
More informationSpotlight on Global Jihad
Spotlight on Global Jihad November 16-22, 2017 Main events of the week This week marked the end of the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq, which was declared by ISIS s leader on June 29, 2014. The Syrian
More information2. How did President Bashar al-assad respond to the peaceful protests?
Background Essay Questions 1. Why did Syrian citizens rise up in protest in March 2011? 2. How did President Bashar al-assad respond to the peaceful protests? 3. Despite being opposed to President Assad,
More informationDr. Raz Zimmt. Executive Summary. On March 12, the conservative Iranian website Farda News published a full transcript of a
Iranian Website Published a Speech Delivered by Hezbollah Secretary General at a Closed Forum Expressing Total Devotion to Iran s Supreme Leader. Similar Statements were Issued Previously by Hezbollah
More informationRecently, the group released videos showing the killing of two American journalists in Syria.
Instructions: COMPLETE ALL QUESTIONS AND MARGIN NOTES using the CLOSE reading strategies practiced in class. This requires reading of the article three times. Step 1: Skim the article using these symbols
More informationIntelligence and Terrorism Information Center
Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center June 11, 2009 The hate industry: Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) continue to inculcate the values of hate and support of terrorism in Palestinian
More informationThis photo comes from an unspecified location in Saudi Arabia. The placard reads: We bless/congratulate Abu Bakr [al- Baghdadi] for the liberation of
Bay ah to Baghdadi: Foreign Support for Sheikh Abu Bakr al- Baghdadi and the Islamic State of Iraq and ash- Sham By Aymenn Jawad Al- Tamimi Over the past couple of months, jihadi media outlets have circulated
More informationOverview. Against the backdrop of European efforts to place limitations on Iran s ballistic missile
Spotlight on Iran March 4 March 18, 2018 Author: Dr. Raz Zimmt Overview Against the backdrop of European efforts to place limitations on Iran s ballistic missile program and curtail its regional influence
More informationIRAN S SIGNALS, CALLS, AND MARCHES
IRAN S SIGNALS, CALLS, AND MARCHES TERRORISM RESEARCH CENTER Vol. 40 September 24, 2013 Terrorism Research Center Inc. 5765 F Burke Center Parkway-PMB 331, Burke, Virginia 22015 Phone (703) 232-1601 Fax
More informationWhy The U.S. Must Stop Supporting Kurdish Forces In Syria BY POLITICAL INSIGHTSApril 3, 2018
Why The U.S. Must Stop Supporting Kurdish Forces In Syria BY POLITICAL INSIGHTSApril 3, 2018 U.S. policy of over-reliance on Kurds in Syria has created resentment among the local Arab population as well
More informationBIN LADEN HOW IRAN IS TRYING
H A M Z A BIN LADEN HOW IRAN IS TRYING T O R E V I V E A L - Q A E DA Introduction On May 9th, 2016, the world was shocked by a voicemail released by Osama Bin Laden s 11th son, Hamza, titled Jerusalem
More informationThe killing of two Al-Qaeda leaders in Iraq and its implications
Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center May 9, 2010 The killing of two Al-Qaeda leaders in Iraq and its implications The Al-Qaeda leaders killed in Iraq. Left: Abu Ayyub al-masri, the Al-Qaeda commander
More informationIran Sent Them to Syria. Now Afghan Fighters Are a Worry at Home.
Iran Sent Them to Syria. Now Afghan Fighters Are a Worry at Home. The New York Times 2017-11-11 23:05:59 Iran has trained and deployed thousands of Shiite Afghans as shock troops in Syria s sectarian war.
More informationIRANIAN REFLECTIONS OF THE JULY 15 ATTEMPTED COUP D ÉTAT
IRANIAN REFLECTIONS OF THE JULY 15 ATTEMPTED COUP D ÉTAT Babak SHAHED Attempted coup d état that took place in Turkey in July 15 and its aftermaths found wide coverage in Iranian press and media as it
More informationSpotlight on Global Jihad November 1-7, 2018
Spotlight on Global Jihad November 1-7, 2018 Main events of the week Russian spokesmen and the Turkish foreign minister announced that the implementation of the Sochi Agreement (between Russia and Turkey)
More informationWar in Afghanistan War in Iraq Arab Spring War in Syria North Korea 1950-
War in Afghanistan 2001-2014 War in Iraq 2003-2010 Arab Spring 2010-2011 War in Syria 2011- North Korea 1950- Began as a result of 9/11 attacks September 11, 2001 Four hijacked planes in the U.S. Two crashed
More informationTurkish Offensive on Islamic State in Syria Caught U.S. Off Gua...
This copy is for your personal, non-commercial use only. To order presentation-ready copies for distribution to your colleagues, clients or customers visit http://www.djreprints.com. http://www.wsj.com/articles/turkish-offensive-on-islamic-state-in-syria-caught-u-s-off-guard-1472517789
More informationASSESSMENT REPORT. The Shebaa Operation: A Restrained Response from Hezbollah
ASSESSMENT REPORT The Shebaa Operation: A Restrained Response from Hezbollah Policy Analysis Unit - ACRPS Feb 2015 The Sheeba Operation: A Restrained Response from Hezbollah Policy Analysis Unit ACRPS
More information... Connecting the Dots...
... Connecting the Dots... The Syrian Arab Army guarding the Road into Banias Everywhere we went, people said they were voting for Security. And Democracy And the Future Syrian Refugee Camp with people
More information4/11/18. PSCI 2500 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Jim Butterfield Davis Arthur-Yeboah April 11, 2018
PSCI 2500 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Jim Butterfield Davis Arthur-Yeboah April 11, 2018 Office hours: Davis: M-Th 3:00-4:30 JB: Tu 4:00-5:30, W 2:00-4:00 From last Wednesday, know for the final exam: What
More informationIran s Influence in Iraq
Order Code RS22323 Updated August 9, 2007 Iran s Influence in Iraq Kenneth Katzman Specialist in Middle Eastern Affairs Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division Summary Iran is actively assisting the
More information