The Islamic State

Abstract

Abstract The chapter looks at the internal conflict dynamics within the Islamic State. It describes the development of an internal ideological schism between the so-called Binaliyya and the Hazimiyya wings of the group. Diverging in their views on the criteria for excommunication (takfir), the two wings engaged in a violent conflict for control over the Islamic State's most powerful institutions including the Delegated Committee. While manifesting itself most prominently in Syria and Iraq, this internal schism would also affect internal dynamics within several of the caliphate's affiliates with severe effects for the global group's cohesion at a critical time in its evolution.