The Islamic State’s ideology is multifaceted and cannot be traced to one individual, movement, or period. Understanding it is crucial to defeating the group.

Airstrikes against ISIS will provide the Syrian opposition an opportunity to work alongside countries that long doubted its ability to rule a post-Assad Syria.

The Islamic State is trying to consolidate its presence in Syria and gain territory using new strategies during its latest push.

Maliki’s alienation of Sunni actors is at the heart of ISIS’s success in Iraq.

Outreach to leaders on the ground is essential for ensuring the country's stability after Assad’s fall.