Reports of a "Sex Jihad" in Syria Likely a Hoax

Hot story

Over the past few weeks, various media outlets have been awash with sensational stories of an alleged "sex jihad" taking place in parts of Syria controlled by the rebels. Hundreds of Muslim women, notably from Tunisia, are reportedly going to Syria to offer themselves to jihadist fighters as a sign of their devotion to thecause. While this certainly makes for an interesting story, it may all be a hoax.

The first mention of "sex jihad" dates back to December 2012, in a screen shot of a tweet by Saudi Sheikh Mohamed al-Arefe, which was widely circulated online. This Salafist theologian is widely respected among jihadists, and is known for his strict sermons.