海角大神

Syria in crisis: The key players in the deepening conflict

Russia鈥檚 intervention into Syria has been described as a 鈥済ame changer.鈥 The conflict has attracted a kaleidoscope of local, regional, and international players all vying to prevail. Here's a guide to who鈥檚 who.

6. Where does the Islamic State fit into all this?

The Islamic State is something of an anomaly in Syria鈥檚 civil war, representing a third element in addition to the pro- and anti-Assad forces. Its priority is to carve out and defend an Islamic 鈥渃aliphate鈥 spanning the Syrian and Iraqi borders. Toppling the Assad regime is a secondary consideration. That agenda often places IS at odds with anti-Assad rebel forces, which has led to clashes and feuding over territory.

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