Islamic State's financial independence poses quandary for its foes

Months before they took control of the Iraqi city of Mosul in June, Islamic State militants were already busy collecting money to finance their campaign of setting up a 7th century-style caliphate.

Militant Islamist fighters parade on military vehicles along the streets of northern Raqqa province.

Militant Islamist fighters parade on military vehicles along the streets of northern Raqqa province.

(photo credit: REUTERS)

ByREUTERS

SEPTEMBER 13, 2014 16:20