Cordesman Offers Blueprint for War’s End

The war in Syria and Iraq is being pursued with too much focus on the tactical mission of defeating Islamic State fighters, defense-policy expert Anthony H. Cordesman believes. More attention should be given to determination of a path to end the fighting and establish peace and security in the region, Cordesman wrote in a white paper published April 4 by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Cordesman proposes:
* That fighting stop focusing on “ISIS and short-term diplomatic goals,” and work instead toward compromises.
* “Put a grand strategic option” that is a better alternative than fighting on the table now, rather than waiting for the fighting to end to do so.
* That the U.S. work with other states, including the United Nations.
* Eschewal of any plans to transform nations in the region into the image of a U.S.-style democracy. Rather, using “existing methods and institutions” that actually help the populace would be more useful.
* “Put the leaders … of key factions in charge.” The U.S. would assume the role of an assistant, pulling aid when corruption becomes too rife, for example.
* Recognize that problems will arise, and be ready to assist countries in resolutions themselves.
* Curtail the arms buildup in the region.
* “Persist when things go wrong. They will.”