The Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS, or simply Islamic State) may be now sitting on a territory with some oil resources -- but will it affect worldwide gas prices and ultimately, energy security?

The concern, a Georgia State University expert says, is whether ISIS can disrupt or seize control of oil production further south.

John S. Duffield, professor of political science at Georgia State, is available to discuss the issue of energy security in the region due to ISIS and its activities.

His direct contact information is available above for reporters logged into the Newswise system.

Duffield is an expert on energy security and the effects of politics on energy. He is the author of "Over a Barrel: The Costs of U.S. Foreign Oil Dependence," printed in 2008, and co-edited "Balance Sheet: The Iraq War and U.S. National Security" in 2009.

"It seems to me that the real question with regard to energy security and oil prices is not what oil ISIS controls now (very little of world production) but its ability to disrupt or take control of the oil production in nearby areas, such as southern Iraq or Saudi Arabia," Duffield said.

"And given the recent intervention by the U.S. with missile strikes, it seems highly unlikely that ISIS forces would be able to make any progress toward taking over those oil fields," he continued. "There is always the possibility of terrorist attacks against the oil infrastructure, but I imagine that security is on high alert."

More information about Duffield is available at http://www2.gsu.edu/~wwwpol/2750.html.