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(WJD) U.S. President Obama and his generals at the Pentagon have often disagreed on strategies when it comes to American foreign policy. The latest sign of tension is about how to fight the Islamic State.
A Washington Post report noted U.S. military leaders have publicly spoken out against the president’s plan against the Islamic State militant group. While Obama has promised not to deploy ground combat troops, Pentagon officials say this option should not be taken off the table.
"Half-hearted or tentative efforts, or airstrikes alone, can backfire on us and actually strengthen our foes’ credibility," said Ret. Marine Gen James Mattis in the Post report. "We may not wish to reassure our enemies in advance that they will not see American boots on the ground."
The U.S. military has thus far launched airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Iraq and has approved a plan to expand the strikes into Syria, but a target date has not been announced.
This week, the U.S. Congress overwhelmingly backed Obama's plan to train and arm Syrian rebels to help fight the jihadist Islamic State. But after the fall midterm break and Congress reconvenes, lawmakers will come back to Washington to debate the issue of a broader authorization of military force in Syria.
