US, UAE launch digital anti-ISIS center in Abu Dhabi

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The US and Emirati governments say they have launched a new digital communications center focused on using social media to counter the Islamic State group's active online propaganda efforts.

The new Sawab Center that became operational Wednesday is based in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, a key American ally in the Middle East and a member of the US-led coalition against the ISIS group.

The center released YouTube videos and Twitter messages in Arabic and English announcing its launch, and expects to launch a website and Facebook presence soon.
The countries say the aim is to support coalition efforts, challenge ISIS propaganda and "amplify moderate and tolerant voices from across the region."