The right is apoplectic over a number of sightings of the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI) flag, which they label al-Qaeda’s. Will McCants says it isn’t that simple:
[The flag’s] appearance in Benghazi certainly raises questions… Nevertheless, the appearance of the flag in other Arab countries is not necessarily evidence of growing
support for al Qaeda or terrorist group’s presence. It could just as easily be youth taking advantage of their newfound freedom to scare their elders, or repressed Salafis using the most shocking symbol possible to voice their anger in public. There is also an element of “Wish You Were Here” photography to many of the photos of the ISI’s flag being unfurled around the Arab world and posted in jihadi forums. This is not to say that the appearance of the flags, particularly in protests, should be ignored. But more corroborating evidence is needed before hitting the panic button.
Adam Serwer won’t even go that far. Aaron Zelin gives a primer on the history of the ISI flag.
(Photo of the flag that sparked the whole debate by Vice‘s Sherif Elhelwa)
The Dish 