On February 16, ISIS news agency, Amaq, released photos of a recent attack by the group on tribal fighters loyal to the Egyptian government in the Sinai Peninsula.
The attack, which took place on February 9, targeted a checkpoint of pro-government tribal forces near the town of al-Munajim in central Sinai.
According to Amaq, six tribesmen were killed in the attack. Another tribesman was captured by ISIS fighters. His fate remains unknown.
Following the attack, tribal forces and the Egyptian Armed Forces launched an operation near al-Munajim to track ISIS fighters. However, they were struck with an improvised explosive device, according to Amaq.
A large force made up of thousands of tribesmen has been supporting Egyptian government forces since the outbreak of Sinai insurgency in 2011.
ISIS attacked pro-government tribal forces in Sinai on several occasions in the last few years. The terrorist group may be attempting to intimidate local tribesmen, whose work has been critical for the security of the Sinai Peninsula.
What security in the Sinai peninsula? There does not seem to be any.
ISIS Commandment No. 578: never go into combat without your brightly floral patterned cushions beside you.