EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
ISIS is a jihadist group whose goal is to establish a state which is based on fundamentalist Islamism. It gained power as a consequence of the Iraqi occupation and the civil war in Syria. It can be defined as a pseudo-state and not as a terrorist group as it holds territory, has a population and possesses a conventional army. ISIS poses a threat to peace in the Middle East, and due to the complicated relationships between the nations of the Arabian Peninsula, it is very difficult to deal with it. I propose a three-stage action plan. First, consider finding a peaceful solution through diplomacy. Involved parties should promote reforms that pacify Sunni Arabs, who, as a result, will turn away from ISIS. Second, I recommend taking a step back and let ISIS destroy itself. Third, form an international military coalition that, through careful timing, will be able to neutralize the IS.
kristof.bauer@cgsrs.org