Mike Wolf

This article from the Daily Mail shows ISIS’ expanded influence.

A follow-up in the Atlantic, on why it’s hard to stop ISIS’ propaganda.

Half of ISIS propaganda is based on the good works ISIS does in the territories that they govern. But there’s a vulnerability, as described  below.

The Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) said in a report that the Islamist group’s need for large amounts of money to govern areas it has conquered meant it was uncertain how long it could finance its current level of activity.

“In order to maintain its financial management and expenditures in areas where it operates, (Islamic State) must be able to seize additional territory in order to exploit resources,” it said.

The task force, which is made up of government officials from around the world who are combating money laundering, noted that the group had generated large amounts of money by appropriating oil fields and from criminal activity such as theft and extortion.

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/isis-must-expand-its-territory-in-order-to-survive-2015-2#ixzz3TFStVmII

Here’s an updated analysis of the  ISIS situation. It follows and amplifies the excellent Atlantic article.

If you have not read the Atlantic article, read it here.

Here’s a thoughtful analysis of ISIS from the Atlantic.

And here’s an irreverent  rant about some reactions to ISIS, by Gary Brecht, The War Nerd. He’s over-the top, but has got some useful perspective on what’s going on with ISIS.

Together they give a 360 degree view of the thing called ISIS.