One of the presidential candidates think that the US should reconsider its involvement in NATO (a position that I can agree), the other thinks we are not doing enough with NATO (a war hawk attitude)…..I recently read an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal (a source that I seldom use unless necessary) that NATO could do more in fighting ISIS……
The goal of the recent attacks directed or inspired by Islamic State on civilians in the U.S. and Europe is to create an atmosphere of fear and to intensify political tensions across the world. As the terrorist organization continues to lose ground in Iraq and Syria, it is focusing more on spreading terror abroad. Central Intelligence Agency Director John Brennan has repeatedly warned that Western countries should expect more attacks.
As Islamic State shifts its strategy, the U.S. and its allies should as well. The time has come for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to invoke its self-defense clause so the full weight of the alliance is brought to bear against Islamic State, also known as ISIS.
Source: NATO Can Do More to Destroy Islamic State—If We Ask – WSJ
I try to give all sides of the situation whenever possible…..this op-ed in New Eastern Outlook, predominately pro-Russia opinion site has another opinion on the fight against ISIS……(not an endorsement…only given for the debate)……
In the few days that Russia has been fighting terrorism, it has achieved more than the US coalition has in years. According to the New York Times, Russian fighter jets are conducting nearly as many strikes in a typical day as the American-led coalition has been carrying out each month this year, a number which includes strikes conducted in Iraq – as well as Syria.
Even though the US has been bombing ISIS for over a year, ISIS has only grown more powerful and gained more ground in Syria. A few months ago ISIS took over the ancient city of Palmyra, a UNESCO world heritage-listed site.
In spite of the fact that the US government acknowledged ISIS cannot be defeated without ground troops, they have refused to work with the Syrian military. The Syrian military is the only UN-recognized legitimate force on the ground and the only force capable and willing to fight ISIS. Conversely, Russia is coordinating with the Syrian military on the ground assisting Syrian troops against terrorism.
Source: Why Russia is Serious About Fighting Terrorism and the US Isn’t | New Eastern Outlook
Do you think that the US is serious about fighting terrorism? Do you think we should demand NATO take a larger roll in the fight against terrorism?
Your thoughts if you would.
