Unveiling the Secrets: The West's War Against Islamic State Will Shock You!

Over the past decade, the world has watched in horror as the extremist group known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) wreaked havoc across the Middle East, committing atrocities and causing widespread fear. While the concept of a war against ISIS may seem clear-cut to some, the reality is far more complex. This article aims to delve deeper into the West's war against Islamic State, exposing some startling secrets along the way.

1. The Rise of ISIS

The birth of ISIS can be traced back to the power vacuum left by the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The organization emerged as an Al-Qaeda affiliate but soon broke away to establish its own caliphate, with Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi as its self-proclaimed caliph. The group's rapid expansion took even seasoned analysts by surprise, and by 2014, its brutal reign of terror had gained global attention.

The West’s War Against Islamic State: Operation Inherent Resolve in Syria and Iraq

by Andrew Mumford (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	934 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	172 pages

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2. The International Response

The rise of ISIS prompted a coordinated international response, with the West at the forefront. The United States, in particular, led a coalition of nations against this growing threat. Military interventions, airstrikes, and counter-terrorism operations became part of the West's strategy to dismantle the group. However, controversy surrounded some of these actions, with questions raised about the legality and effectiveness of certain tactics employed.

3. The Role of Media

The media played a pivotal role in the West's war against Islamic State. Clickbait titles and sensationalized storytelling fueled public interest and anxiety. Reports often highlighted the group's heinous acts, serving as both a warning and a recruitment tool. However, this media coverage also inadvertently amplified the terrorists' message, providing them with a platform they craved. Striking a delicate balance between informing the public and not glorifying terrorism became a crucial challenge.

4. The Battle for Hearts and Minds

Winning the hearts and minds of communities susceptible to extremism has been a crucial aspect of the West's war against Islamic State. Countering the group's ideology and propaganda required a multidimensional approach. Education, social programs, and providing alternatives to vulnerable individuals were essential strategies. While progress has been made, this battle remains ongoing, as the underlying causes that fuel radicalization persist.

5. Foreign Fighters

One of the most concerning aspects of the West's war against Islamic State has been the influx of foreign fighters joining the group's ranks. Disillusioned individuals from various countries traveled to Syria and Iraq, seeking purpose or adventure. Countering this phenomenon demanded international cooperation, intelligence sharing, and travel restrictions. Some governments introduced harsh penalties for those attempting to join extremist groups, while others focused on rehabilitation and reintegration programs for returning fighters.

The West's war against Islamic State has been multifaceted and arduous. It has relied on military might, media coverage, and efforts to counter radicalization. However, despite numerous setbacks and challenges, progress has been made. Today, the Islamic State's territory has significantly diminished, and its capability to carry out large-scale attacks has been hindered. Yet, the battle is far from over, and the secrets surrounding this ongoing war continue to be unveiled.

The West’s War Against Islamic State: Operation Inherent Resolve in Syria and Iraq

by Andrew Mumford (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	934 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	172 pages

FREE

On the 29th of June 2014 ISIS declared the establishment of a caliphate stretching across territories in Iraq and Syria. In response, Operation Inherent Resolve, a US-led 77 nation coalition, was launched to respond to the threat of Islamic State. The West's War Against Islamic State offers the first history of Operation Inherent Resolve and the West's war against ISIS, from its inception in 2014 to the fall of Raqqa in 2017.

Andrew Mumford offers a comprehensive analysis and assessment of the military campaign deployed against ISIS in Syria and Iraq by examining the West's strategic objectives as well as the conflicting interests of rival powers, namely Russia, Iran and Turkey. By examining individual operational components of this military engagement such as drone usage, cyber warfare, special forces operations and sponsorship of guerrilla forces, this book offers a unique insight into the nature of modern warfare.