To the Point
Islamic State Lures US Military Back to Iraq
Two years after President Obama took the US out of combat in Iraq, he’s authorized airstrikes against the so-called Islamic State. How deeply should the US become re-engaged? Can Iraq remain a unified country?
By Warren Olney • • 52m ListenTwo years after President Obama took the US out of combat in Iraq, he’s authorized airstrikes against the so-called Islamic State. The Kurds have re-taken some small towns, but the threat of genocide against religious minorities still remains. The President says further military assistance will be conditioned on a stable Iraqi government, but in Baghdad, there’s political chaos. How deeply should the US become re-engaged? Can Iraq remain a unified country?
Also, a new Iraqi prime minister is named, and are black, male teenagers “collateral damage” in America’s need to feel safe?
Banner Image: Peshmerga on a T-55-Tank outside Kirkuk in Iraq; Credit: Boris Neihaus
In this episode
3 storiesNew Iraqi Prime Minister Named, But Maliki Not Leaving
Our main topic: America’s re-engagement in Iraq, as the Islamic State threatens the stability of that country. The new President of Iraq has nominated Haider al-Abadi as the next prime minister. He’s a rival of the incumbent, Nuri al Maliki. Tim Arango is Chief Correspondent in Baghdad for the New York Times.
Read the story6 minIs the U.S. Doubling Down in Iraq?
In 2011, President Obama withdrew US combat forces, hoping to see the last of American involvement in Iraq. Now, he’s authorized US airstrikes against the expanding forces of the Islamic State. Is the U.S. doubling down in Iraq?
Read the story35 minWhy Was Another Unarmed Black Teen Killed by Police Last Weekend?
Police in Ferguson, Missouri, say 18-year-old Michael Brown pushed an officer into his police car and “assaulted” him there on Saturday afternoon. The officer shot Brown, who was unarmed, multiple times as he ran away from the vehicle.
Read the story8 min
