Security
The power of partnership in the enduring fight against extremism
In the ongoing mission for regional security, partner forces in Iraq and Syria stand as one of the most critical lines of defense against ISIS.
![A member of the Coalition forces provides instructions to partner forces prior to conducting close-quarters battle training in northeast Syria. [US Army]](/gc1/images/2026/01/24/53570-1-600_384.webp)
Al-Fassel |
The Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), a coalition of over 90 nations, has been instrumental in enabling a durable partnership against terrorism.
By advising, assisting, and training partners, the international community ensures that the fight against ISIS is led by those most invested in a stable future.
This effort is not just about defeating a terrorist group; it is about restoring peace and stability to the region.
Coalition forces are committed to creating a safe environment where families can live free from fear and extremist influence.
A unified front against extremism
The ultimate mission of the CJTF-OIR, alongside partner forces, is to enable conditions for long-term stability in Syria and Iraq.
In Iraq, this involves close collaboration with the government to restore stability to conflict-affected areas and ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS.
According to CJTF-OIR, since 2014, the Coalition has trained, equipped, and mentored more than 240,000 members of the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF).
Similarly, securing infrastructure in Syria and preventing its recapture by ISIS supports regional stability and diminishes the group’s ability to recover lost territory.
Why defeating ISIS matters for civilians
ISIS and similar groups operate like criminal organizations, spreading extremist beliefs that fuel violence and crime.
Their ideology is incompatible with most common human values such as peace, education, stability, and prosperity.
Furthermore, Coalition leadership has emphasized the ongoing necessity to maintain pressure on ISIS remnants, denying them resources, operational freedom, and opportunities to regroup.
The former Commander of US Central Command, General Kurilla, stated that the Coalition's mission is to "deny fresh oxygen to the smoldering embers of violent extremism."
By removing ISIS remnants, Coalition forces help prevent future atrocities and create conditions for long-term security cooperation.
This commitment ensures that communities in Iraq and Syria can rebuild and thrive without fear of terrorism.