Calm, Cool, and Collected

            It seems safe to say that much of the world was in shock when Paris was attacked last weekend. Almost instantly, support from all over the world flooded through to France. Social media lit up in colors of the French flag, world leaders expressed their solidarity, and many all over the world mourned for their loss. ISIS has claimed responsibility for this attack, as well as attacks that recently occurred in Lebanon and the downing of a Russian passenger airplane. All of these, and the continued attacks against civilians in Syria, are very tragic events.  

            The attack in Paris was ISIS’ first attack outside of the Middle East and seemed deliberately to target a Western nation. This has caused many politicians and U.S citizens to call on President Obama to do something. Whether that be to increase bombing campaigns, wage war against ISIS, halt the acceptance of Syrian refugees, to send troops to Syria, to work with Russia, or other ideas that will change depending on the person asked. There does not seem to be a consensus on what should be done, which is understandable considering this emotionally and politically charged issue.

            Focusing specifically on waging war on ISIS and the Syrian refugees, President Obama has been releasing statements that give clues to his stance. President Obama has been careful not to declare war against ISIS, and that is the best possible solution as of now. Declaring war not only gives legitimacy to ISIS that may enflame its ego, but it also carries with it some other implications. Including, sending American troops to fight in Syria. This would push the U.S further into the complicated, messy Syrian conflict, would be extremely costly, and would greatly increase American casualties. For now, the U.S should continue to work closely with its allies and contribute from the air. While airstrikes alone may not be able to take out all of ISIS, it is the strategy that should be exhausted first. There are other forces on the ground fighting against the terrorist organization, and right now, sending American troops is not the right answer. This strategy, of course, may change in the future. For example, if there was an attack on the U.S, then there is a possibility of troop deployment to the area. Or, if ISIS was reduced significantly and it would only take a small number of American troops to completely eradicate it, then there is a chance that different talks would be had.

            Many people are also opposing the acceptance of 10,000 Syrian refugees by the United States. Or, they allow the acceptance but with certain restrictions—such as they must be Christian. These refugees, mostly women and children, are fleeing oppression, murder, and deplorable living conditions. The U.S should continue along with President Obama’s plan to still allow the refugees. They will, of course, go through the mandated screening process, but this will not include any sort of tests to determine if they are Christians. President Obama has been using very strong rhetoric to call out those who are suggesting that the U.S halt its influx or test for religion. Particularly towards Republican politicians and presidential hopefuls, Obama has remarked “When candidates say we should not admit 3-year-old orphans, that’s political posturing. When individuals say we should have religious tests, and only Christians, proven Christians, should be allowed, that’s offensive and contrary to American values” (http://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/first-read-obama-unloads-gop-candidates-over-refugee-refusal-n465461). It is contrary to American values and it is putting (a somewhat irrational) fear over humanity. There are many reasons to still offer asylum to those in need—just look at what the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty says, at the United States’ history that was contributed to greatly by immigrants, and the fact that these Syrians are running for their lives. Politicians and citizens need refute those who make racist remarks and fearful statements backed up by an inadequate amount of facts. The United States should not turn its back on those in need.

            Against ISIS, in light of these recent tragedies, against the atrocities committed in Syria and the Middle East, the world must remain united. Terror organizations are meant to do just that—instill fear. Remaining strong, united, rational, and informed is a necessary part in combating ISIS. Citizens and politicians alike can benefit from understanding (if unwilling to support) President Obama’s calculated, restrained, calm, and patient approach to not only ISIS, but the Syrian refugees.