The announcement of a formal Islamic state by insurgents in Syria and Iraq is a "declaration of war against the West and al Qaida", an expert has warned. The Islamic State in Iraq and Greater Syria (Isis) group has sought to solidify its leadership of worldwide jihad today by declaring that its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is the new caliph, or head of state.
Abu Mohammed al-Adnani, a spokesman for the group, called for those living in the area under the group's control in both countries to swear allegiance to Baghdadi.
Around 500 British-linked citizens are already thought to have travelled to the Middle East to fight with the Sunni Muslim group against its Alawite and Shia sectarian foes amid fears that more will join them.
Professor Peter Neumann, from the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation at King's College London, said the significance of today's announcement should not be underestimated. "It's a declaration of war – not only against the west and all the countries that are currently fighting Isis, but more importantly, against al-Qaida. Isis now see themselves as the legitimate leaders of the movement and they expect everyone to fall in line.
"For ideological jihadists, the caliphate is the ultimate aim, and Isis – in their eyes – have come closer to realising that vision than anyone else. On that basis, Isis leaders believe they deserve everyone's allegiance. » | Press Association | Sunday, June 29, 2014
