Publication

This analysis examines the different goals of the US campaign against the so-called Islamic State (IS). In the case of Syria, for example, US military attacks have no political purpose beyond generally weakening IS. In the case of Iraq, however, the campaign is part of a broader attempt to form an inclusive government in Baghdad. Well and good, observes the analysis, but it closes by also reminding us that both campaigns are operating within three definable planning parameters set out by the Obama administration.