During a hearing on Tuesday on global efforts to defeat ISIS, Senator Bob Corker expressed concern that the Obama administration’s strategy is not adequate to the threat facing the United States from the terrorist group.
“I fear that in spite of continued attacks on our homeland, our military response to ISIS does not adequately reflect the direct nature of this threat to the United States,” said Senator Corker. “I think many of us grow frustrated when the administration’s optimistic rhetoric often does not match the results.”
Senator Corker also questioned the administration’s commitment to a diplomatic resolution for the Syrian civil war that would require a transition from the Assad regime, an outcome he cited as central to the coalition’s military effort to defeat ISIS.
“I don’t see how the ISIS coalition can be successful while the Syrian civil war continues,” said Senator Corker. “This administration has declared that Assad must go, but it certainly appears as if that position is changing or has changed. I don’t see how what’s left of the political process possibly leads to Assad’s departure.”
The committee heard testimony on Tuesday from Brett McGurk, special presidential envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter ISIL. His testimony came two weeks after CIA Director John Brennan issued a stark warning that despite ISIS suffering territorial losses, the administration’s “efforts have not reduced the group’s terrorism capability and global reach.” This assessment contrasts with more optimistic statements delivered recently from President Obama.