Publication

This report describes the results of two simulations ISW conducted in early 2015 to determine the likely problems and opportunities the US and its allies will face in countering the threats posed by the self-proclaimed Islamic State (or ISIS). Some of the takeaways from the simulations include the following: 1) ISIS will continue to expand in the medium-term; 2) few countries are willing or able to visualize the group as a global-level threat, which it is; and 3) the US will ultimately have to choose between increasing its armed responses against ISIS or rely on coalition partners to address the threats it poses.