Militant group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) has become a worldwide threat. ISIS became a form of fear after various attacks that occurred in cities such as Zilten, Paris, and San Bernardino [allegations still pending]. Many people however don’t understand the reason behind these terrorist attacks. ISIS’ main goal is to gain religious, political, and military control over all Muslims. By setting up terrorist attacks, ISIS is getting the worldwide attention that they’re seeking in order to recruit Muslims for their group. The acceptance of Muslim people in the Islamic group allows ISIS to feel the power they have been hoping to gain in previous years.

The most recent terrorist attack occurred in Brussels, Belgium on March 22, 2016. On this day, multiple acts of violence were committed. The first two attacks were carried through in an airport while the third and final one occurred in a metro station. In these two locations, suicide vests were the main weapons used. These attacks caused 34 people to die and 190 people to be injured.

As a form of government response, security all around Belgium increased. To start off, all flights and train rides to and from Brussels had to be cancelled. Residents of Belgium were told to avoid crowded areas due to the possibility of another attack.

Since 2013, ISIS has been involved in approximately 55 terrorist attacks. This high number causes cities around the world to live in fear. It also causes social problems for Muslims since there are those who hold the view that many more Muslims than we know of are actually a part of ISIS. This stereotype has caused Muslims to speak out against ISIS. They point to the falseness of ISIS’ singular belief that they have been killing the name of Islam.

In Illinois, governor Bruce Rauner took action after multiple terrorist attacks by saying Illinois as a whole was not going to accept Syrian refugees. The reason he refuses to allow Syrian refugees into Illinois is because he believes this increases the chances of members of ISIS entering the state. However, the action Governor Bruce Rauner took didn’t stop ISIS from stating that Chicago might be its next attack. This makes it important for Chicago residents to always be aware of their surroundings and to constantly communicate about this delicate topic.

– Rocio Gonzalez