The alarming use of water as a weapon by the Islamic State is sadly part of a greater trend: diminishing water resources as a source of manipulation and conflict [“For Islamic State, water is a weapon,” front page, Oct. 8].

In the Niger River Basin, where Boko Haram has gained influence, similar scarcities have been used to recruit those desperate for food or water. When extremist groups offer an alternative to starvation or thirst, those groups look awfully favorable to local populations, regardless of their views.

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