In 2014, ISIS declared the establishment of a self-proclaimed caliphate, with al-Baghdadi as its caliph. The group imposed a strict interpretation of Islamic law, known as Sharia, and carried out brutal attacks on minority groups, including Yazidis, Christians, and Shia Muslims.
After his release from prison in 2009, al-Baghdadi joined the Iraqi branch of al-Qaeda, known as the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI). He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a key leader in the group. Qaida Al Baghdadi Pdf
The fall of the ISIS caliphate has not eradicated the threat of extremism, and the region remains volatile. The US-led coalition continues to work with local forces to stabilize the region and prevent the resurgence of ISIS. In 2014, ISIS declared the establishment of a