The Islamic State militants committed crimes in the past, but the United States started acting only when oil resources were endangered, editor of California Courier newspaper Harut Sassounian said.

Sassounian said the Middle East developments are a serious threat to the world.

“Armenians are much concerned over the events, since there is an important community in Syria, and there was one in Iraq that unfortunately has reduced considerably. But what worries us, is not a matter of concern for other states, as they have their own interests,” Sassounian told reporters in Yerevan.

World powers, including U.S., Russia, France, are seeking to impose their will on small countries. They are working with Islamists even if they are committing crimes but are still under control, he said.

“As soon as Islamists get out of control, they are doing their best to exterminate them,” Sassounian added.