Assessment of the Politico-Military Campaign to Counter ISIL and Options for Adaptation

This report assesses the campaign against the Islamic State (ISIL), focusing on the military and political aspects. It evaluates the capabilities and motivations of the counter-ISIL forces, as well as U.S.-led efforts to provide training, equipment, advice, and assistance. While some degradation of ISIL has been achieved, lasting defeat will require more capable indigenous forces and political agreements among Iraqis and Syrians.