ISIL’s revenue comes from taxation of locals under their control, oil smuggling, and Sunni donors in the region. What about their weaponry? ISIL seized a large cache of arms when it took Mosul about 18 months ago. But ammunition is obtained from local arms dealers and from other rebel groups.
Iraqi offensive on Ramadi nears
Iraqi media has called for civilians to leave the city of Ramadi which fell to ISIL last spring. The Iraqi army and Shia militias have all but encircled the capital of Anbar province. It remains to be seen how much local support ISIL has in the city. Few will like ISIL’s harsh rule but many might prefer it to Shia rule.
Nord Stream II gas pipeline under review
Germany is seeking to ink a gas deal with Russia which will include construction of a pipeline beneath the Baltic Sea. Many EU states see this as an unwise move that will give a resurgent Russia further influence in the EU.
Russia has deployed fighter escort jets armed with air-to-air missiles to its base in Latakia. Look for them to escort Russian air support missions – and look for them to cross into Turkey for short visits.