Terrorist Threats Come With Explosive Tactics, Youth
More stories from Rachel Beckman
Child terrorism has become increasingly frequent among groups such as ISIS, often times used within front line attacks in bombings and explosions.
Following recent attacks in the Middle East and various prisoner stories, information on the power of the Islamic State of Iran and Syria (ISIS) continues to display the powerful effect the terrorist group is having on the world. As one of the largest terrorist organizations, ISIS implements kidnappings of not only adults, but also children, to help in its defense and buildup. From groups as young as preschoolers to teenagers, ISIS utilizes these children and adolescents as defense mechanisms. Their main purpose is to carry bombs to the “enemy” sides, which makes these children targeted bait for soldiers guarding the other side.
“They tell them if they do this, they will go to heaven and have a good time and get everything that they ever wanted,” Kirkuk governor Najmaldin Karim said.
The shocking news of adolescent use within terrorism hit the public with a staggering force after the tragic killing of 54 at a Turkish wedding in August 2016. Just days after the incident, investigators released information confirming those involved in Turkey’s deadliest attack in history. Not only were 22 of those murdered teens and children, but the bomber was estimated to be between the ages of 12 and 14.
“Children’s minds are vulnerable and easily manipulated,” social studies teacher Lauren Krickl said. “It shows how much power adults can have in shaping the minds of kids.”
In frequent occurrences following the major attack in Turkey, children have become increasingly present within ISIS-related bombing attacks, fueling hatred towards non-ISIS members and prompting service to the group; gun-use and bombing techniques with children are paving the way for the future of the group.
The developed brainwashing techniques and force within ISIS display the large effect it is having on families and adolescents. Additionally, it communicates the seriousness of the group and its possible force in the future.
“War is constant and will never stop,” junior Gabriel Tijerina said. “It is so important to know what is going on around the world and ISIS’s effect on so many people.”