What happens after ISIS falls?

A thoroughly British reflection on the terror threat

"Our approach to Muslims is no different because these attacks purport to be committed in the name of Islam. We don't stigmatise the millions of British Muslims whose values and faith completely reject the terrorists' litany of hate. We are a nation that accepts difference but builds communities with shared values. We should be proud of that - it is another reason why the UK is a hostile environment for those intent on murderous terrorism. It means that the vigilance of our officers is backed-up by millions more eyes and ears. These are whole communities united in defeating terrorism."

An interesting article by the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, on the terror threat to the UK. Full article HERE. 

Things aren't going so well for ISIS these days, evidently

I've thought for a while that applying the old Roman practice of damnatio memoriae would be the most appropriate way to deal with ISIS. How satisfying it would be for any "legacy" they hope to achieve to be wiped from the world's collective memory, so that nobody even remembers who they were in twenty years. All of their "martyrdom" and death would have resulted in a sum total of nothing. Not the most inspiring legacy for the disaffected youth of the future. 

They've finally lost Fallujah, and have been taking heavy losses from the air during their retreat (see below). Mosul is next on the list. 

SUMAC - Rigid Man

Russian Circles, Isis, and Baptists join their metal powers. Very exciting...

Here's to hoping the "72 virgins" scenario plays out like this for a couple of people in particular today

Poor Belgium. This article pretty much captures my feelings about the whole thing.

SUMAC - Thorn In The Lion's Paw

Strong start

No real surprises here

(via here)

ISIS - The Red Sea

Heavy goodness, with the drummer (Aaron Harris) being the drum tech for both Abe Cunningham (Deftones) and Danny Carey (Tool). 

The challenge of the Islamic State

What ISIS really wants

An interesting article from The Atlantic.

'murrica!