Once the immediate crisis has been addressed, we must prevent the development of the Islamic state. That will require an effective government in Baghdad who must take steps to win back the acquiescence, if not the loyalty, of the Northern tribes who, of course, are Sunni and who could take on the Islamic extremists if they chose to. Beyond that we need to review our attitude to the present regimes in Tehran and in Damascus – yes, Damascus. We cannot afford to do less. An “Islamic state” poses a major threat to the stability of the whole Middle East. Furthermore, it establishes an area under the control of Islamic extremists which poses a threat to Britain itself. The Security Service have been unambiguous in pointing to the risk of “blow-back” – that is young men from Britain going out to fight and coming back fired up with hostile intent. This risk will be exacerbated by any success that IS may continue to have as it will certainly be seen by its adherents as a sign of God’s favour to their cause.