According to CNN, a joint investigation by two independent organizations (Conflict Armament Research (CAR) and Sahan Research) has found that ISIS have used chemical weapons against Kurdish forces and civilians in both Iraq and Syria.
The findings add to previous reports that ISIS have been adapting explosive devices to contain chlorine and other chemicals, in an attempt to develop other weapons. There have been a number of allegations that ISIS are using chemicals in suicide bombings and IED (Improvised Explosive Device).
ISIS have recently taken over a water purification facility in Iraq, where could have been available.
Chemicals like chlorine have been used in attacks as early as 2006, and Bashar al-Assad’s government forces have been accused of using chemical weapons against civilians.
These reports are worrying as they show that ISIS is experimenting and has the technology to create such weapons.
By Fiona Carty