This week’s episode of the Irregular Warfare Podcast examines the US military’s “by, with and through” approach while working alongside Iraqi security forces in Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR).
Our guests begin by examining the geopolitical trends that led to America’s reengagement in Iraq in the mid-2010s. They then discuss the merits and pitfalls associated with the US military’s strategy to work by, with, and through Iraqi security forces to defeat ISIS. Finally, our guests conclude by considering the lessons that practitioners can take away from America’s experience in Iraq, and how the United States can prepare for future partnered operations in an era of strategic competition.
Brigadier General Pat Work currently serves as the director of operations, readiness, and mobilization for Headquarters, Department of the Army. During his tenure as the commander of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, he led US and coalition forces against ISIS in OIR. A 1995 graduate of West Point, he holds advanced degrees from Georgetown University and the Marine War Corps College.
Mr. Jeff Martini is a senior researcher at the RAND Corporation where he focuses on security cooperation and strategic competition in the Middle East. He previously served as the North Africa lead at the State Department’s Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations. He is a graduate of Middlebury College and holds a master’s degree in Arab Studies from Georgetown University. In August 2022, he coauthored a RAND report on US ground force contributions to OIR in Iraq, which serves as the anchor for today’s conversation.
Ben Jebb and Matt Moellering are the hosts for this episode. Please reach out to Ben and Matt with any questions about this episode or the Irregular Warfare Podcast.
The Irregular Warfare Podcast is a production of the Irregular Warfare Initiative (IWI). We are a team of volunteers dedicated to bridging the gap between scholars and practitioners in the field of irregular warfare. IWI generates written and audio content, coordinates events for the IW community, and hosts critical thinkers in the field of irregular warfare as IWI fellows. You can follow and engage with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.
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