Part 1
Author: Farhad Furutan
Whenever children are recruited by various terrorist and extremist groups, they assume different roles within these organizations. However, within the ISIS caliphate, the utilization of “child soldiers” represents a complex, multi-dimensional phenomenon.
ISIS systematically utilizes children as primary agents in carrying out severe acts of violence, alongside adult collaborators. This group proudly showcases children as shooters, suicide bombers, and soldiers on the battlefield in its propaganda media.
Before delving into the subsequent sections of this article, it is essential to comprehend the term “child soldier” as outlined in the initial section.
A child soldier is defined as anyone under 18 years of age recruited by a terrorist armed group and utilized as a fighter, spy, messenger, cook, or for other purposes.
Research indicates that between 2015 and 2021, more than 1,100 children, primarily Syrian and under the age of 16, voluntarily joined ISIS and served as soldiers.
Children are easily enticed by the material and psychological incentives provided by ISIS. Upon joining the ISIS caliphate, children receive a monthly salary, which serves as a compelling incentive for joining the group.
ISIS continues to attract children through its weaponry and uniforms. Raed Suri, who joined ISIS at the age of 16, expressed in an interview with the Human Rights Watch: “I was drawn to ISIS’s uniform and their vast array of weapons, prompting my decision to join them.”
This multifaceted issue will be further explored in this article as we delve into the rationales behind the involvement of children within the ISIS caliphate, insha’Allah.
Esteemed readers,
It is evident that children are not only recruited alongside adults but are specifically singled out due to the unique advantages their participation brings to this terrorist group.
Given the importance of this issue, we will explain it in detail in various parts of this article.
To be continued…
