The US War Against ISIS: How America and its Allies Defeated the Caliphate

The book "The War Against ISIS: The American Side of the Story" provides insights into how the United States and its allies chose to fight the group, the consequences for transatlantic relations, and how these factors may shape future wars. It is based on first-person interviews with U.S. and European policymakers, and members of the military in direct combat against ISIS.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 27 January 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The fight against ISIS is frequently explained by the group's ascent to power, but the American perspective has yet to be fully told. This book chronicles how the United States and its allies decided to combat the group, the effects on transatlantic relations, and how these factors may influence future Western wars. The book is based on first-person interviews with American and European policymakers, as well as military personnel engaged in direct combat against ISIS. These interviews provide valuable insights into how the West fights wars, including civilian decision-making during the conflict.

The book explores the West's approach to conflict and uncovers new insights, such as why the U.S. military and civilian bureaucracy underestimated Russian military capabilities. The war was intended to be limited and focused, but its consequences have been significant and far-reaching, including a serious rift in Turkish-Western relations and Russia's return to the Middle East. Aaron Stein examines why errors were made in the war against ISIS and what happens when a narrow policy focus on counterterrorism is pursued at the expense of broader regional security and political concerns.

This book is particularly relevant in the current context, as the United States may be called upon to address the rise of another terror group or confront a collective threat. The lessons learned from this book are essential for policymakers and military leaders as they navigate the complex and challenging terrain of counterterrorism and international security.

Weight: 414g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755634798