Beirut: Faced with a cash shortage in its so-called caliphate, Islamic State has slashed salaries across the region, asked residents to pay utility bills in black market American dollars, and is now releasing detainees for a price. The extremists who once bragged about minting their own currency are having a hard time meeting expenses, thanks to coalition air strikes and other measures that have eroded millions from their finances since the last northern autumn. Having built up loyalty among militants with good salaries and honeymoon and baby bonuses, the group has stopped providing even the smaller perks: free energy drinks and Snickers bars. Necessities are dwindling in its urban...
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