The pseudo-state of IS

The Islamic State is a blessing of the US invasion of Iraq in 2003. Before this invasion, the IS was only a small group of extremists. Now it has almost 30,000 fighters. It governs a territory and is expanding its influence. Its followers are coming from different countries, especially from Europe, and have joined it willingly. The question is: will a counterterrorism strategy work for this pseudo-state?
Unlike Al-Qaeda, the IS holds territory. It has a huge following. It is self-financed. It gravitates youth to its way of religion easily and most importantly has a presence in urban areas. It earns around $1 million to $3 million per day through crude oil sale. The US itself is not in a position to wage a war against the IS. There are many factors hindering the US’ efforts – low public support, presidential elections in 2016, etc. On the other hand the growing power of the IS is dangerous for countries like Syria and Iraq, and threatens world peace. There is a need for all world powers – the US, Russia, China and France – and the Gulf states to work out a joint strategy. A different diplomatic strategy of containment can work – not a counterterrorism strategy.
Zuhaib Ahmed Pirzada
Islamabad