GRAFFITI of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria has been observed in a number of cities in Pakistan. The most recent is the Larkana on the death anniversary of Benazir Bhutto, which shows that these elements have managed to reach the areas which are traditionally considered nonviolent and peace-loving.

The IS element is not a new phenomenon in Pakistan, as it has been witnessing a similar ideology since the start of the Afghan war. A number of jihadi elements have openly admitted their loyalty to the IS, the most recent one being the cleric of Lal Masjid in Islamabad, Maulvi Abdul Aziz.

This ideology is working as Boko Haram in Nigeria, Al-Shabab in Somalia, Tehrik-iTaliban in Afganistan and Pakistan and Al Qaeda in various countries. These jihadi organisations share the same philosophy in the name of radical Islam, including the killing of so-called non-believers, attacking shrines,resortingtoforcedconversion of non-Muslims, destroying girls schools, and kidnapping and killing school children.

They also share the resources,fundsand manpower for their cause, wherever needed.

Migration of Pakistani Taliban to Syria and Iraq to help IS. The transfer of funds from donors in the Middle East is an example.

The IS graffiti in Pakistan is just a symbol of their shared beliefs and ideology.

The government and law-enforcement agencies should try to break the link of local jihadists with their international counterparts by restricting foreign funding to religious schools. Moreover, a full-fledged military operation to eliminate them must start at once. Removing graffiti is not even a temporary solution to this massive problem.

Irfan Hussain London