Agence France-Presse quotes Africa Center Director J. Peter Pham on the influence that the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham has had on extremist groups beyond the Middle East:

Africa’s multiple groups, all with differing domestic agendas, may view IS with “ideological sympathy”, said Peter J. Pham, from the Washington-based Atlantic Council.

But while “there may be declarations of support” he was doubtful of “actual linkages”.

However, individuals may be encouraged to join the fight.

“Many fighters move across the Sahel, move into Libya — where they do their initial training — and from there go on to Syria and Iraq,” Pham told AFP.

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