What should be done
Another Westerner has been beheaded by ISIS, sending a cold message to the US to stop its so-called aggression against ISIS. In a new video released by the terrorist organization, an aid worker from the UK was beheaded, joining a seemingly growing list of victims by ISIS. As the world is horrified by yet another beheading, questions are now being asked, when will the western states act, and how many more Westerners are being held by ISIS? How many more victims will have to undergo such a barbaric act?
The US is trying to garner support from its allies, especially from the Middle East to join in the fight against ISIS. There is no doubt that most nations condemn the brutal executions made available on social media. But what exactly can nations do? Obviously America will have the UK on its side, especially with this latest beheading. But what about the rest of the civilized world?
Right now, air strikes seem to be the preferred method in dealing a blow to ISIS. But what history has proven is that real victory only comes when you put boots on the ground. Fighters and drones can only do so much. There will come a time when you have to flush out the enemy and neutralize them. Something only soldiers on the ground can achieve.
Having said that, what the US and other nations who have committed to the fight against ISIS have in mind is to train indigenous forces in dealing with ISIS should a ground offensive be required. There was no mention of actually putting US and British forces that would directly engage ISIS. But many see the folly of such an undertaking, citing the apparent failures of local security forces in Iraq and Afghanistan in controlling armed militants. Iraq is one of the countries where ISIS has a strong following.
Once again, dealing with terrorist groups is proving to be easier said than done. Many have seen the passionate speech of President Barack Obama with regards to the beheadings and bringing down ISIS, and British Prime Minister David Cameron who called ISIS "monsters." But both nations have said that they would train others to go after ISIS, rather than committing their respective troops. But will this be effective? Will it eliminate ISIS right away? Or will it just prove to be another futile attempt in curbing terrorist groups who have become more brazen in their ways, who do not follow any civilized manner of conduct? In my honest opinion, a heavy hand is already necessary if ISIS is to be eliminated, or "followed to the gates of hell" as one official put it. And whether we like it or not, agree with it or not, this needs the personal attention of countries like the US, UK, and France to be successful. It needs their boots on the ground.
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