Defectors: ISIS is killing Muslims, not protecting them

September 21, 2015 19:17

They are a new and growing phenomenon. Of the 58 cases, nearly two thirds of the defections took place in the year 2015. One third happened during the summer months alone.

The defectors' experiences are diverse. Not everyone has become a fervent supporter of liberal democracy. Some may, in fact, have committed crimes. They were all, at some point, enthusiastic supporters of the most violent and viciously totalitarian organization of our age. Yet they are now its worst enemies.

The quality of their testimony varies, and the precise circumstances and reasons for leaving the Islamic State aren't always clear. What convinced me that, as a whole, their stories are credible is how consistent their messages were.

Among the 58 defector stories, I found four narratives that were particularly strong:

One of the most persistent criticisms was the extent to which the group is fighting against other Sunni rebels. According to the defectors, toppling the Assad regime didn't seem to be a priority, and little was done to help the (Sunni) Muslims who were targeted by it.

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