While the Islamic State, formerly known as ISIS, mainly operates in Iraq and Syria, the radical jihadist group is slowly spreading its influence. A black IS flag first appeared in Srinagar, India on July 11, later appearing in the towns of Jammu and Kashmir on Eid-ul-fitr on July 29. The flag concerns the government of India as well as separatists in the area. 

There is an insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir between the Kashmiri separatists (known as “ultras”) and the state of India. The ultras desire this area of India to be absorbed by Pakistan, but an IS infiltration could cause problems. 

“We are unable to control the youth who are drifting towards the Deobandi school of thought, which is more or less aligned to Wahabi sect,” said one leader. “This is a disturbing trend in the Kashmir Valley, which is predominately of Barelvi thought. The trend in the coming future may disturb the social fabric and trigger sectarian clashes.”

These protesters were seen participating in an anti-Israel rally. From India Today:

Amid alleged ISIS supporters’ presence in Jammu and Kashmir on Eid-ul-fitr, people reportedly were shouting anti-Israel and pro-Palestine slogans. Before people holding ISIS and Al Qaeda flags appeared on the street, it has been learnt Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani reportedly called for a protest against attacks on Gaza.

Youths, wearing masks also threw stones at the security forces prompting them to fire smoke shells and lathicharge the mob.

IS is apparently using these anti-Israel rallies in other countries to promote their jihad in Iraq and Syria. The terrorists emerged at a rally in The Netherlands and waved their black flag, marking the first time it appeared in Europe. The crowd screamed, “Death to the Jews!” and tried to relate to the Muslim boys as a way to recruit them into jihad.

“We are Moroccans,” one man yelled, according to The Daily Beast. “The French killed the Moroccans but they didn’t kill them all; the grandchildren of the few men left protest against the West, America and the Jews.”

Zo heee is dit in #denhaag Dat is schrikken. #gazademo #schilderswijkpic.twitter.com/LyDivpgMs2

— ron (@070ron) July 25, 2014