Islamic State courts like-minded Afghan jihadists

Subject

Islamic State strengthens in Afghanistan.

Significance

As US-led Afghan peace talks proceed slowly and the Taliban battle Afghan troops around the country, reports that Islamic State (IS) is growing in strength further complicate the prospects for peace.

Impacts

• The Taliban determination to continue fighting diverts US and Afghan military resources from IS.
• Russia will make practical preparations for the long-feared emergence of a direct IS threat to Central Asia.
• Al-Qaida's already fading influence as global jihad leader will be further reduced if IS consolidates its position in Afghanistan.