Muslims hit hard during Ramadan

At least 350 people around the world killed in terrorist attacks during the period of reflection

As Muslims around the world celebrate the end of Ramadan, many are struggling to comprehend a wave of attacks that killed 435 people across several continents during the holy month and made urgent the question of what drives the militants to ever more spectacular violence against civilians.

The diverse, high-profile targets - including one that struck the heart of Islam in the month's final days - underline the warnings of many experts: the Islamic State group, especially when on the defensive at home, will metastasize far beyond its theater of operations.