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Islamic State
paydesk has 234 reporters who cover Islamic State. Our journalists are already on location, all over the world, and ready to work at a moment's notice. Our top correspondents who cover Islamic State are Michele Barbero and Yan Boechat. Use our journalist directory to find an Islamic State member to work for you.
Journalists Who Cover Islamic State
Michele Barbero
Michele Barbero is a senior journalist from Italy based in Paris. Excellent knowledge of Western politics, with particular focus on France, Italy, and Brussels. Available for articles (news or features) and for live hits (tv and radio).
English
French
Italian
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
News Gathering
Content Writing
+8
Politics
Current Affairs
Arts & Books
+6
Related Articles
The Competition for France’s Olympic Legacy
The 2024 Paris Olympics present a significant opportunity for French President Emmanuel Macron to regain political momentum amid low approval ratings and a lack of parliamentary majority. The Games are also crucial for Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, who aims to leverage the event to further her green urban agenda and possibly secure a third term. Security concerns, including the threat of terrorism and potential protests, loom large, with extensive measures planned to ensure safety. The event's budget has already increased but remains one of the most cost-effective in recent history. The political stakes are high, with both Macron and Hidalgo seeking to capitalize on the Games' success, although historical precedents suggest that the long-term political impact may be limited.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Yan Boechat
Yan Boechat is a journalist based in São Paulo, Brazil. A journalist with over 20 years of experience, I'm a collaborator of the main media outlets in Brazil. Throughout my career, I worked as a reporter and editor in Economics, Business, Politics, and National. In recent years I have ...
Portuguese
English
Spanish
Interview (Print / Radio / Podcast)
Fact Checking
Current Affairs
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 114
Job Success Rate 97%
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
Shards of IS Part 1: Forgotten children of Islamic State locked away in Syria
Thousands of former Islamic State members and their children remain imprisoned in northeastern Syria, with many children having never experienced freedom. The al-Houri Rehabilitation Center holds boys from IS families, but overcrowding and indefinite detention, especially for foreigners, are significant issues. Amnesty International criticizes the conditions and the separation of children from their mothers, blaming local Kurdish authorities and the U.S. for maintaining this system. Despite the defeat of IS, the threat persists, and international cooperation is needed to address the ongoing human rights violations and prevent future radicalization.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Left
Political View
Alan Boswell
Alan Boswell is an experienced Africa correspondent and analyst based in Nairobi, Kenya, currently writing a book on South Sudan.
English
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Feature Stories
Risk Analysis
+5
Politics
War Reporter
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 2
Usually Responds Within a few minutes
Related Articles
Somalia Amid a Swirl of Regional Tensions
The article discusses the rising regional tensions involving Somalia, Ethiopia, and Egypt, focusing on the new Egypt-Somalia defense pact and its implications. It highlights the strained relations between Somalia and Ethiopia over Ethiopia's desire for sea access through Somaliland and the diplomatic efforts to ease these tensions. The future of the ATMIS mission, set to conclude by December, is uncertain, with discussions on a possible follow-on mission. The article also addresses Ethiopia's military presence in Somalia, Egypt's increasing security assistance, and the growing role of the Islamic State in Somalia's global operations. The potential for diplomacy to improve regional relations is also explored.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
David Chazan
David Chazan is a journalist.
Related Articles
Boy, 16, arrested over ‘messages about suicide attack’ at Paris Olympics
A 16-year-old French boy was arrested for allegedly posting a message on social media about his intention to launch a suicide attack during the upcoming Paris Olympics. He expressed a desire to die as a martyr in the name of the Islamic caliphate. The arrest took place at his parents' home in Marignier, near the Swiss border, where a handwritten declaration of allegiance to Islamic State was found.
Factual
Factuality Scale
William Davies
I am a freelance TV reporter, video journalist and photographer with 13 years of experience. I have worked all over the world; in 2014 I reported from 15 different countries, from Gaza to Ukraine to Brazil for the World Cup. I am just as happy behind the camera as I am in front of it, and work ...
English
French
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+11
Fact Checking
Usually Responds Within a few days
Related Articles
Institute for Human Sciences
The Institute for Human Sciences is an independent institute for advanced study in the humanities and social sciences, hosting over 1500 scholars since 1982. The article discusses various topics including pronatalism in Central and Eastern Europe, the impact of wars on Pankisi, comparisons between communist China and Czechoslovakia, and Ukraine's EU candidacy. It also highlights the institute's engagement with 'deep diversity' and the challenges facing post-revolutionary Ukrainian society.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center-Left
Political View
Nicole Di Ilio
Nicole Di Ilio is a journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon. Her work focuses on conflicts, radicalism, migrations, and marginalized groups. Her writing has appeared in Sky, Al Jazeera, Al Monitor, New Lines Magazine, VICE, among other publications. In recent years, she has been on the ground covering ...
Arabic
English
French
+2
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Feature Stories
Content Writing
+5
Jobs Completed 7
Job Success Rate 100%
Usually Responds Within a few minutes
Related Articles
The Continuing Tragedy of Ghouta’s Chemical Attacks
The article recounts the harrowing experiences of survivors from the chemical attacks in Ghouta, Syria, on August 21, 2013, where sarin gas was used by the Assad regime, resulting in over 1,144 deaths and thousands of injuries. Survivors like Mohammed Zarba and Mohammad Ahmed Suleiman share their traumatic memories, emphasizing the deliberate nature of the attacks and the lack of justice for the victims. The article also highlights the regime's denial of chemical weapon use, despite evidence and international condemnation. The fall of the Assad regime in 2024 is noted, but the demand for accountability and justice for the atrocities remains unfulfilled.
Opinionated
Factuality Scale
Far Left
Political View
Khaled Diab
Khaled Diab is an award-winning freelance journalist, blogger and writer who is currently based in Belgium. He has previously been based in Tunis, Jerusalem, Brussels, Geneva and Cairo. Khaled writes for leading publications in Europe, the Middle East, the United States and Asia. He also ...
Arabic
Dutch
English
Feature Stories
Content Writing
Corporate Content
+6
Fact Checking
Related Articles
New Atheists and old prejudices
The article explores the informal alliance between New Atheists and Christian fundamentalists against Islam, highlighting the alienation felt by many atheists, particularly in the Arab world. It critiques prominent figures like Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris for their perceived Islamophobia and cultural biases. The piece also discusses the challenges faced by Arab atheists in navigating their identity amidst Western and religious pressures. It calls for a universalist humanism that respects all beliefs, criticizing the tribalism and sectarianism present in both religious and atheist circles.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Youssra El-Sharkawy
Youssra el-Sharkawy is a journalist based in Cairo, Egypt.
Arabic
English
Feature Stories
Interview (Print / Radio / Podcast)
Journalism
+1
Arts & Books
Film & Theatre
Cultural
+1
Related Articles
Aserb… an epic of Air Force heroism
The article reviews the film 'Aserb (The Squadron)', which depicts Egypt's Air Force's retaliatory strike against the Islamic State in Libya following the massacre of 21 Copts. The film, directed by Ahmed Nader Galal, is praised for its cinematic quality, vivid drama, and accurate portrayal of the military operation. It features a strong cast, including Ahmed el-Sakka and Sherif Munir, and is compared favorably to Hollywood's 'Top Gun'. The film highlights themes of bravery and national pride, with a well-crafted script by Omar Abdel Halim and a compelling score by Amr Ismail.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Dalia Hatuqa
I am a multimedia journalist whose work has appeared in The Economist, Foreign Policy, The Atlantic and elsewhere. Since 2000, I have divided my time between the U.S. and the West Bank, covering a range of political, economic and cultural issues for print, TV and radio. Before moving back to ...
English
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Vox Pop
+12
Fact Checking
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
A Better U.S. Mission in Iraq: Fight ISIS, Invest in the State
The report argues for a redefined U.S. mission in Iraq, focusing on assisting Iraqi security forces against ISIS, shifting bilateral relations towards governance and economic diversification, and moving away from using Iraq as a counter-Iran strategy. It highlights the risks of continued U.S. military presence, including potential escalation with Iraqi militias, and suggests a phased troop withdrawal while maintaining engagement through non-military means. The report emphasizes the importance of respecting Iraqi sovereignty and fostering a stable, democratic Iraq as a regional ally.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center-Left
Political View
Valerie Hopkins
Valerie Hopkins is currently the South-East Europe Correspondent for the Financial Times, where she covers the region out of Budapest. She has more than ten years of experience working in South-Eastern Europe. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian The Atlantic, The Washington ...
Russian
Feature Stories
Interview (Print / Radio / Podcast)
Journalism
+1
Current Affairs
Fact Checking
Related Articles
Inmate Revolts Highlight Failings and Miseries of Russian Prisons
A recent mutiny in a Russian prison, instigated by inmates claiming allegiance to the Islamic State, resulted in 13 deaths and has raised critical questions about the state of Russian prisons. The incident highlights severe issues such as poor conditions, lack of personnel, and corruption within the penal system. Experts suggest that the war in Ukraine has exacerbated these problems, leading to increased unrest. The article also discusses the broader implications of these uprisings for President Vladimir V. Putin and the Russian security services.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center-Right
Political View
Michael Horowitz
Michael Horowitz is a journalist based in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.
Jobs Completed 2
Related Articles
Israel’s Moment of Peril — and Promise
The article reviews Michael Horowitz's book 'Hope and Despair: Israel’s Future in the New Middle East,' which examines Israel's current geopolitical challenges and opportunities. It highlights the threat posed by Iran and its proxies, as well as the improved relations with Arab states through the Abraham Accords. The book critiques the Palestinian Authority's leadership and the lack of progress in peace talks, while also noting the impact of U.S. administrations on regional dynamics. Despite some omissions, the book is praised for its detailed analysis of Israeli and Palestinian politics.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center-Right
Political View
Abdulkadir Khalif
Abdulkadir Khalif is a journalist based in Muqdisho, Somalia.
English
Feature Stories
Content Writing
Corporate Content
+6
Fact Checking
Usually Responds Seldom
Related Articles
Somalia tortuous and elusive long road to true democracy
Somalia's journey towards democracy has been fraught with challenges since the military coup led by Mohamed Siad Barre in 1969, which replaced a functioning democratic system with a dictatorial regime. Despite initial stability and development under Barre, the regime's oppressive nature led to the emergence of various rebel groups, ultimately resulting in Barre's overthrow in 1991. However, the subsequent fragmentation of the country into clan-based fiefdoms and the rise of radical Islamist groups have complicated efforts to establish a unified democratic state. The current federal system reflects ongoing struggles between those nostalgic for past stability and those advocating for democratic ideals.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Lisa Louis
Lisa Louis is a freelance journalist based in Paris, France. She is a native German speaker, but also fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese. She works for TV, radio and online. You can find more info and examples of her work on her website: ****
Chinese (Mandarin)
English
French
+3
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+13
Business
Finance
Politics
+12
Jobs Completed 3
Usually Responds Within a few hours
Related Articles
France: Trial for Complicity in Teacher's Murder
In France, a trial is underway for eight adults accused of complicity in the 2020 murder of history teacher Samuel Paty, who was killed by an 18-year-old Chechen after showing caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad in class. The trial highlights the ongoing tension between secularism and religious extremism in France. Two men face life sentences for allegedly aiding the attacker, while others are accused of being part of a terrorist group. The case underscores France's strict anti-terrorism laws and the symbolic nature of the attack on Paty, representing an assault on French values and secularism. The trial is seen as a necessary reminder of the threat of religious terrorism, with implications for future legal precedents and societal attitudes.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Willy Lowry
Willy Lowry is a Canadian journalist currently based in Arusha, Tanzania. His work appears in The New York Times, Fusion and CBC. He's also appeared on CNN and BBC. As a video journalist, he shoots, writes and edits his own stories. He started his career in Beirut, Lebanon writing for the The Daily ...
English
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+9
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 10
Job Success Rate 91%
Usually Responds Seldom
Related Articles
Trump reverts to ‘maximum pressure’ on Iran and warns of 'obliteration' if he is assassinated
President Donald Trump has reinstated a 'maximum pressure' policy on Iran, aiming to reduce its oil exports to zero, while warning of severe retaliation if he is assassinated by Tehran. Despite this hardline approach, Trump expressed openness to resetting relations with Iran, indicating a potential shift from his previous term's policies. The memorandum signed by Trump directs the US Treasury and State Department to enforce economic sanctions on Iran, reminiscent of his withdrawal from the 2018 nuclear deal. Analysts note Trump's tone suggests reluctance, hinting at possible future negotiations with Iran.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Right
Political View
Ruth Maclean
I am the Guardian's West Africa correspondent, based in Dakar. Previously I was The Times's correspondent in South Africa and Mexico. I can make audio and video for broadcast or the web to a very high standard. I also shoot my own photographs. I have an extensive knowledge of the region and good ...
English
Spanish
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+14
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 5
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
They Thought It Was Safe to Go Home. Then They Were Slaughtered.
Residents of Mafa, a village in Nigeria's Yobe State, returned home after being assured of safety, only to face a deadly attack by fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province, a Boko Haram splinter group. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 170 people, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with Islamist extremists in the region. This incident follows another major attack in Burkina Faso, highlighting the persistent threat of terrorism in West Africa.
Informative
Factuality Scale
Tendai Marima
Tendai Marima is a multimedia journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe. She has worked for a range of international publications including Al Jazeera, the New York Times, Foreign Policy and NPR. She is also a fellow of the NEWF based in South Africa and a member of Fairpicture and the Everyday Projects....
English
Feature Stories
Content Writing
Corporate Content
+8
Business
Arts & Books
Breaking News
+1
Related Articles
A New Leader Rises in Mozambique
Daniel Chapo is leading in Mozambique's general election, potentially marking a shift from past leadership. The country faces significant challenges, including economic turmoil from the 'tuna bond' scandal and ongoing insurgency in Cabo Delgado. Chapo's campaign promises peace through increased military presence and dialogue, but skepticism remains about his ability to address the root causes of conflict. The outgoing president, Filipe Nyusi, focused on security but failed to tackle social inequality. International forces, including Rwandan and SADC troops, are involved in stabilizing the region, but their future role is uncertain. Human rights abuses by Mozambican forces remain a critical issue, with calls for accountability and reparations. The election represents hope for change, but significant obstacles remain in achieving lasting peace and stability.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Erikas Mwisi
erikas mwisi is a journalist. Je suis journaliste reporter vivant a l'Est de la republique democratique du congo en province du nord kivu ville de beni. Suis de la nationalité congolaise j'ai été recruté pour la realisation des interviews et reportages audios par semaine pour l'emission santé de la ...
French
Social
Jobs Completed 955
Job Success Rate 100%
Related Articles
At least 42 killed by suspected Islamists in east Congo
In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's North Kivu province, at least 42 people were killed by suspected Islamist rebels, specifically the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a group affiliated with Islamic State. The attack occurred in the village of Mayikengo, Lubero territory, where assailants lured residents to a market under false pretenses before attacking them. Local officials, including Lubero administrator Alain Kiwewa and sector chief Macaire Sivikunula, confirmed the death toll, which is expected to rise. The incident follows a similar attack in the same province earlier in the week, highlighting ongoing violence attributed to the ADF.
Factual
Factuality Scale
Mustafa Salim
Mustafa Bannay is a journalist based in Baghdad, Iraq.
English
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Investigative Journalism
+2
Politics
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 21
Job Success Rate 91%
Usually Responds Within an hour
Related Articles
Iraq bans alcohol in hotels and clubs, bringing country close to near-total ban
Iraq has officially banned alcohol in social clubs and hotels, marking a near-total prohibition in the country. The move is part of a broader trend of restrictive alcohol policies, which have faced criticism from non-Muslim communities and civil groups for infringing on personal freedoms. The ban has led to increased alcohol prices and the closure of many liquor stores, with some turning to covert methods to continue sales. Critics argue that the law disrupts societal harmony and alienates minorities, while others warn it may lead to unregulated alcohol consumption. The ban is part of a series of controversial measures by the current government, including the designation of a Shiite religious event as a national holiday.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Sertan Sanderson
Sertan Sanderson is a seasoned journalist with a rich background in covering news and current affairs. Specialising in social change, migration, and cultural impacts, his work is characterised by a deep exploration of the intersection of politics and human rights. His reporting has taken him ...
English
German
Turkish
+2
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+12
Politics
Current Affairs
Medical
+6
Jobs Completed 1
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
Austria: Stabbing attack changes narrative on migration, emboldens far-right
A stabbing attack in Villach, Austria, allegedly linked to the Islamic State, has intensified the debate on migration, with far-right parties like the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) calling for stricter asylum policies. The attack has fueled support for anti-migrant rhetoric, mirroring trends in Germany and other parts of Europe. Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner suggested mass screening of immigrants, while FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl criticized the current asylum system. The incident has heightened political tensions, with potential implications for future elections and migration policies in Austria and Europe.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Right
Political View
Richard Spencer
Richard Spencer is Middle East Correspondent for The Times of London, based in Beirut, Lebanon.
English
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Feature Stories
Interview (Print / Radio / Podcast)
+1
Politics
Current Affairs
War Reporter
+1
Jobs Completed 2
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
Who are HTS? Syrian rebels who toppled Assad
HTS, originally known as Jabhat al-Nusra, is a Syrian rebel group that emerged during the civil war and was initially affiliated with al-Qaeda. Led by Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, HTS has evolved into a significant force in northwest Syria, maintaining autonomy compared to other groups constrained by foreign backers. Despite rebranding and efforts to present a more moderate image, HTS's jihadist roots remain a concern. The group has capitalized on regional instability, with Jolani positioning himself as a pragmatic leader aiming to unite Syria while facing challenges in gaining widespread support. The Assad regime, despite military victories, struggles with economic collapse and international isolation.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Lara Villalón
Multimedia journalist based in İstanbul. Focuses on Turkish politics and foreign policy and economy. Also interested in labour rights and feminism.
Catalan
English
Spanish
+1
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+8
Finance
Politics
Current Affairs
+8
Related Articles
Muslim countries call for immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon at meeting in Riyadh
Saudi Arabia hosted a meeting with representatives from the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon amid ongoing Israeli offensives. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the need to halt Israeli actions, which have resulted in significant casualties. Despite discussions on key priorities, no concrete measures or roadmaps were adopted due to disagreements on conflict resolution and Palestinian state recognition. Qatar, a participant in the summit, has suspended its mediation role in Gaza ceasefire talks. Saudi Arabia is increasing its diplomatic efforts to curb regional conflict escalation and seeks to demonstrate its regional influence to the incoming U.S. administration under Donald Trump.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Anchal Vohra
Anchal Vohra is a Beirut-based TV and Print journalist. She is a freelance Correspondent for AJ English and a writer on the Middle east for Foreign Policy. She also contributes to the Times, the Atlantic, the Telegraph, the New Statesman, and Berlin Policy Journal. Ms Vohra has been Deutsche Welle ...
English
Live Reporting
Fact Checking
Investigative Reporting
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 19
Job Success Rate 95%
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
Is Jolani Any Better Than Assad?
The article examines the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad's ouster by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in Syria, led by Abu Mohammed al-Jolani. While Syrians celebrate Assad's removal, there is uncertainty about HTS's governance, given its extremist past and allegations of human rights abuses. Jolani's transformation from a jihadist to a nationalist Islamist leader is met with skepticism, as HTS remains labeled a terrorist organization. Concerns persist about potential authoritarian rule under Sharia law, with fears of restricted freedoms and minority rights. The situation reflects a 'monster-versus-monster' conflict, with Syrians having limited choice in their rulers.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Henry Wilkins
I'm a British multimedia journalist based in the Mumbai region of India. I'm HEFAT certified and create TV and radio, mostly for Voice of America. I’ve also appeared on BBC World Service, France 24 and CBC Radio and Al Jazeera. I've written for outlets like The Economist, The Washington Post, Al ...
English
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+17
Politics
Current Affairs
Technology
+10
Jobs Completed 46
Job Success Rate 96%
Usually Responds Within an hour
Related Articles
IS in Sahel expands terror threat beyond strongholds
The Islamic State in the Sahel is expanding its terror threat beyond its traditional strongholds in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, targeting regions like Morocco and potentially stable countries such as Guinea and Senegal. Recent disruptions of terror cells in Morocco and Spain highlight IS Sahel's strategy to exploit security gaps in vulnerable countries. Analysts warn of the group's broader ambitions, with North Africa and Algeria facing increasing threats. The Sahel remains the epicenter of global terrorism, as noted by the Global Terrorism Index.
Balanced
Factuality Scale