Libya’s civil war has allowed Islamic State to consolidate its position there

The Economist argues that one of the Islamic State's most concerning outgrowths is its stronghold in Libya, where it feeds off of the political chaos and has the potential to spread instability throughout the region and into Europe. However, the group's controversial brand of extremism may undercut its own goals, inspiring homegrown resistance as it elicits a stronger response from the West:

IS has made many enemies in Libya, which may eventually be its undoing. Its attempts to expand have put it into conflict with tribes and militias that are willing to fight back. It has also been prevented from acquiring any of the country’s vast energy resources. Most Libyans are Sunni, so the group cannot prey on sectarian tensions as it has done elsewhere. And a hit to its brand in Iraq and Syria may make it less popular abroad. But as long as Libya is consumed by chaos, the jihadists of IS are likely to endure.Click to read the full article.