Evolution of Islamic State Narratives amid the Covid-19 pandemic

ISIS, Covid-19, Middle East, Africa, Asia

The COVID-19 pandemic has beset global populations, reordered the priorities of nations and disrupted international cooperation. Taking advantage of the crisis, the Islamic State (IS) has produced and disseminated propaganda content that has evolved from emphasising certain narratives to calling for action. In February 2020, as COVID-19 infections mounted in China and Iran, IS proclaimed the epidemic to be ‘divine retribution’ for the two nations, China for its treatment of Muslims in the country, and Iran for its apostasy, hypocrisy and ingratitude. Weeks later as the outbreak was declared a pandemic, IS provided further advice and views on the crisis, and called for action in a bid to exploit the disorder and vulnerabilities of its “enemy” and to remain relevant as governments divert their attention to tackling COVID-19. As the pandemic rages on, IS operations in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia persist, as have IS-inspired attacks around the world. Will the terrorist group be able to continue to survive and thrive in this intra-pandemic environment? This article explores the evolution of IS narratives surrounding the pandemic and its impact on IS as a global network and its future