The high alert on ISIS must continue

Although the Islamic State (IS) group has recently lost territory and an estimated 80 percent of its revenue base, the 30 official and semiofficial IS channels and chat rooms still emphasize its longevity and strength.

So far, its sharp territorial decline has also destroyed its ability to collect revenue from oil production and smuggling, taxation, confiscation and other similar activities. Its average monthly income has reportedly dropped from US$81 million in the second quarter of 2015 to only $16 million in the second quarter of 2017.

However, IS still strong in its role and existence on social media and the internet. They broadcast IS’ development efforts to domestic and international audiences, from dam construction, digging wells, building infrastructure, to electrification of villages under IS control.

Source: Jakarta Post