The Pentagon Sends Surveillence Planes Over the ISIS in Syria

A few days ago, President Obama ordered the military to fly planes over Syria for surveillance. Some planes had people flying them, some did not. Flying these planes was a big step in military involvement in Syria. Now, the Pentagon is thinking about targeting the militant ISIS (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria) which is closer to the border, rather than targeting deep inside Syria. A few days after the planes were flown, Syria informed the U.S.A. that if planes were flown over their country again without notice, it would be considered an act of aggression. However, Syria did signal that they would be willing to work with our country in targeting the militants. President Obama has not yet decided to have military action in Syria, but if he does, Syria's President Bashar al-Assad will not know about the plans, because he would make it harder for Syria and the U.S.A. to work together. Brian Katulis, a national security expert, stated, "Any hint that our actions might further reinforce Assad's grip on power would make it hard to build that coalition."

I think it is good that our country is working with Syria and possibly getting the military involved. This alliance against the IS may even prevent future disputes between the two countries, or end existing ones.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/26/world/middleeast/obama-syria-ISIS.html?ref=politics&_r=0

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-28935590

Questions for Discussion:

Why did the Pentagon send planes into Syria without notifying the country first?

Is it a smart idea to join forces with Syria and target the ISIS? Why or why not?

Should Assad have been told about Syria and the U.S. working together? What might he do when he finds out?