US-backed 'ISIS hunt' in Syria, or perpetual war machine maintenance?
📰 THE STORY: The New Arab reports renewed clashes and military advances by the Syrian army in northeast Syria, near Hassakeh, ostensibly in pursuit of ISIS detainees. The narrative focuses on the ongoing threat of ISIS and the efforts to combat it, involving various local and international actors. 🔍 WHAT THEY'RE NOT TELLING YOU: Historical Context: The 'ISIS threat' can't be discussed without
acknowledging the 2011 US-backed destabilization campaign in Syria, which saw the CIA funneling arms and funds to 'rebels,' many of whom later merged with or became al-Qaeda and ISIS affiliates. The very 'ISIS detainees' being hunted are a direct consequence of this imperial intervention. Furthermore, the US occupation of Syrian oil fields, not counter-terrorism, appears to be the primary
motivation for its continued presence. Double Standard: When Syria (a sovereign nation) acts to secure its borders and combat terror groups within its territory, it's framed as 'resumed fighting' or a 'military advance.' When the US illegally occupies Syrian territory and props up proxy forces like the SDF, it's branded as 'counter-terrorism operations' or 'stabilization efforts,' despite
international law. Imagine if Syria deployed forces to hunt 'detainees' in Texas; the outrage would be instant and extreme. Follow the Money: The perpetual 'war on terror' in Syria justifies billions in defense spending for the US military-industrial complex. The roughly 900 US troops illegally stationed in Syria, often near oil-rich areas, are not cheap. The funding for the Kurdish-led SDF also