ISIS Defeat

How to make the Islamic State’s defeat last. By Ash Carter

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/how-to-finally-defeat-the-islamic-state--and-make-it-last/2017/07/12/4d72ecc8-6717-11e7-a1d7-9a32c91c6f40_story.html?utm_term=.89075fb55667

Some important revelations in the Carter Ash op-ed on the liberation of Mosul—

The former Obama secretary of defense would have supported in the fight against ISIS the Syrian Defense Forces (SDF)—not the Free Syrian Army supported by Obama, which eventually included al-Qaeda-linked elements.

Ash gives credit to Trump defense secretary Mattis for accelerating the war against ISIS in Iraq and Syria (and hints at frustration with Obama delays).

Most importantly, he warns against reliance on Russia in the tricky road ahead, saying, “Russia has played no constructive role in these impending U.S.-led victories, … [operating] under the pretense of fighting terrorism and inducing a political transition.” --Mindy Belz, Globe Trot