ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that territoriality plays a pivotal role for terrorist organizations. The author analyzes some recent evolutions of the Islamic State in light of its territorial and statehood elements, focusing in particular on territory, population, governance and international legal recognition by states. The author argues that the Islamic State’s strategy stems from a balanced approach that combines de-territorialized actions in the West with a territorial project which involves the creation and development of a territorial entity that resembles a state. Its determination to control territory and aim for statehood remains intact.
