IDLIB, Syria – The remaining Islamic State senior leaders are looking inward to address reports of toxic organizational culture following news that their leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, killed himself this weekend.
“His death was tragic but preventable. This is a perfect example of our lack of resiliency,” said one senior ISIS leader. “He was a product of the 'move-up or blow-up' system that often forces our fighters into roles for which they are not prepared. It’s completely toxic. The first time some special operations unit comes knocking on their door, they go to pieces. Figuratively, of course."
"And literally now, I suppose.”
