The real challenge is not necessarily stopping the Islamic State, but rather ensuring that it does not reemerge.
Women, who not only offer moral support, but also combatant support in the field, contribute—directly or indirectly—to an industry of death, as they strive for the inexorable march of jihadism, and the extermination of those they see as “impious” and “apostates.”
It remains to be seen what role Arab countries will play in combined international efforts to defeat the Islamic State.
As the Islamic State continues to grow rapidly, questions are being raised about its origins.
The biggest challenge facing the United States in taking on the Islamic State will be going beyond degrading and attacking its military capabilities.
While countries like Jordan will not participate militarily in the U.S. strategy against ISIS, it will provide much needed logistical and intelligence support and connections with the Sunni tribes of Iraq.
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.
An effective strategy for defeating IS depends on an objective that can be achieved with the resources and allies at hand.
The president's four-pronged strategy of airstrikes, support to local proxies, defending against ISIS attacks through intelligence and counter-terrorism, and humanitarian assistance leaves many unanswered questions.
Obama’s strategy is a positive step forward after years of relative inaction on part of the United States, but it is far from comprehensive.












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