The Islamic State was first established in October 2006 and was known as just the Islamic State

of Iraq. Initially, ISI consisted of various groups linked to Al-Qaeda and their figurehead was

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Due to the civil war in Syria, ISI was able to get a strong foot hold in

Syria and as of April 2013, ISI is now commonly known as ISIS. Their main focus as a jihadist

group is to fight current government forces in Iraq and Syria. They currently control large

regions in both Syria and Iraq.

It can be said that Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is the most infamous Jihadi leader in the world due to

the, “harsh governing tactics such as beheading, amputations, forcible displacements, torture and

murder” implemented as a part of ISIS beliefs.

President Obama’s speech concerning the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria on Wednesday 10

September, 2014 outlined America’s views and plans moving forward. While ISIS does not pose

an immediate threat to US borders, Obama expressed concern for the long term threat ISIL poses

on US homeland security.

In his speech on last Wednesday, Obama communicated that he will not give any leniency

to these terrorists anywhere in the world. He plans on conducting “a systematic campaign of

airstrikes against these terrorists” but stated that there will be no American troops on ground

to combat. However, the United States will “increase [their] support to forces fighting these

terrorists on the ground”.

Along with airstrikes and increased support, Obama articulated that the United States would partake

in a grand coalition to aiding Iraqi forces with training, intelligence and equipment. Many Sunni

Muslims have been displaced so there is emergency relief being organized on their behalf. The

United States will support National Guard units to protect the communities’ freedom from ISIS

control.

“I will not hesitate to take action against ISIL in Syria, as well as Iraq” Obama affirmed (ISIL is

an alternative to ISIS). “This is a core principle of my presidency: If you threaten America, you

will find no safe haven.”