An enhanced train-and-equip program for moderate Syrian opposition is proposed as a middle option between direct U.S. military intervention and the current limited support. Such a program could (1) strengthen moderate opposition to pressure Assad into negotiations, (2) force ISIS to draw down forces in Iraq by pressuring them in Syria, and (3) deter adventurism by Assad, Hezbollah, or Iran. While not ending the war, it could shape outcomes by altering military balances and applying pressure on all sides to reconsider rejection of a diplomatic solution.
Chapter-8th-Recent Developments in Indian Politics-PPT.pptx
An Enhanced Train-and-Equip Program for the Moderate Syrian Opposition
1. AN ENHANCED TRAIN-AND-EQUIP PROGRAM
FOR THE MODERATE SYRIAN OPPOSITION
A Key Element of U.S. Policy in Syria and Iraq
Michael Eisenstadt and Jeffrey White
MILITARY AND SECURITY STUDIES PROGRAM
THE WASHINGTON INSTITUTE
3. Requires coalition effort
FORCE
RISK
Requires support of American people
Heightened potential for tensions
with other key actors
POLICY OBJECTIVES
1. Strengthen moderate opposition to set conditions
for a diplomatic solution to Syria’s civil war
2. Put pressure on ISIS safe haven in eastern Syria, forcing it to
draw down in Iraq and relieve pressure on Maliki govt.
3. Deter adventurism beyond Syria’s borders by an
overconfident regime
4. Pressure Syria to eliminate residual CW capabilities and deter
future use
5. Provide humanitarian assistance to the Syrian people
SYRIA: U.S. MILITARY OPTIONS
DENY ASSAD
REGIME ACCESS TO
FINANCIAL ASSETS
ENHANCE
CREDIBILITY OF
THREAT OF FORCE
TO INCREASE
PRESSURE ON
REGIME
TRAIN/EQUIP
MODERATE
OPPOSITION
DISRUPT FLOW
OF FOREIGN ARMS
TO REGIME
DRONE STRIKES
ON JIHADIST
GROUPS
STRIKE KEY REGIME
TACTICAL
MILITARY UNITS
STRIKE KEY
REGIME STRATEGIC
MILITARY AND
ECONOMIC
TARGETS
STRIKE/SECURE
RESIDUAL CW
CAPABILITIES
NFZs AND
HUMANITARIAN
SAFE HAVENS