IS extremist group inspiring local commanders to attack: UN

The UN political chief says the Islamic State extremist group has reorganised its military structure, giving local commanders more power and inspiring attacks outside conflict areas.
Jeffrey Feltman told the UN Security Council today that the threat posed by the militant group is intensified by its use of the internet and social media, including in Europe.
Although the volume of IS messages has declined in the last 16 months, he said "the threat persists as supporters outside Syria and Iraq collect and redistribute this propaganda."
He said IS-affiliated groups in North Africa "pose a serious danger" and IS extremists are challenging established al-Qaida affiliates in West Africa. He said IS in Somalia and Yemen "represent an increasing menace" and the threat from the military group is increasing in Southeast Asia.