Following a declaration of war against the Islamic State-affiliated group Sinai Province by the prominent al-Tarbiyeen tribe in North Sinai, the governorate’s second largest tribe al-Sawarka issued a similar declaration. The tribe asserted that Sinai Province is an extension of the IS group and means to destroy nations; therefore, national and religious duty obliges al-Sawarka to also work to combat the group. The tribe said they will be in direct military confrontation with Sinai Province and will form a common command between the tribes and the Armed Forces to coordinate operations. Sinai tribes have a great knowledge of militant hiding places and more access to local information than the Armed Forces. The statement said that among the captured was an IS Police Authority official, alleged to be active on the ground in North Sinai.

Source: Egypt Independent May 16, 2017 14:37 UTC