(Bloomberg) – They look like regular Islamic State militants in khaki fatigues and black bandanas, exercising and practicing combat routines. Yet their size and lack of trademark black beards betray them as children. The group, also known as ISIS or Da’esh, is already turning to the next generation to ensure its legacy of extremism and brutal violence endures as a U.S.-led offensive chips away at areas it controls in Iraq and Syria. Using recruitment offices in Syria called “Cubs of the Caliphate,” the al-Qaeda breakaway group is incorporating young Muslims into its ranks, sending some into battle or having them shoot hostages.
