Insurgency and Terrorism in the Philippines: A New Front in the War Against Islamist Extremists
Abstract
Emerging links between the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and Philippine militant organizations, particularly the Abu Sayyaf Group, pose a serious risk to global security, and the United States must leverage all the instruments of national power to address the threat. For several years, analysts have been concerned about growing ties between terrorist groups operating in the Southern Philippines and the Islamic State. As an international coalition continues to apply military pressure against jihadist strongholds in Iraq and Syria, ISIS will seek new safe havens and revenue streams to support their goal of global jihad. The recent seizure of Marawi City by Islamic insurgents demonstrates the growing financial resources, compelling narrative, and military capability of these rebel groups. Left unchecked, the densely forested and predominantly Muslim regions in the Southern Philippines offer the ideal conditions for the second incarnation of an ISIS caliphate. Unfortunately, the unpredictable leadership style of Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte complicates the strategic situation in the region. As a result, the United States must seek innovative strategies for employing the diplomatic, economic and information in-struments of power, while assisting the Philippine military in their struggle against militant groups.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 22, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1047845
Entities
People
- Eric D. Bader
Organizations
- Naval War College