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General Soleimani’s strategic leadership, a decisive force in defeating ISIS, reshaping the Middle East and leaving an indelible mark on history.
Introduction
In the tumultuous landscape of the Middle East, one name echoed as a formidable force against the rise of ISIS — General Qassem Soleimani. This article unravels the intricate tale of ISIS, tracing its roots from the emergence of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi to the liberating endeavors led by General Soleimani. From the unexpected breeding grounds at Camp Bucca to the pivotal moments in Mosul and Tikrit, General Soleimani’s strategic leadership shines through. His ability to unite disparate factions, transcend sectarian divides, and orchestrate successful offensives marked him not just as a military strategist but as a charismatic diplomat.
Unveiling the Complex Tapestry of ISIS: From Emergence to Defeat
I. Prelude to Chaos
A. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi’s Emergence
On June 29, 2014, ISIS terrorists introduced Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi as the leader and caliph of their group, declaring the establishment of the caliphate. Al-Baghdadi was captured in Fallujah in February 2004, according to the US military, and then spent ten months at Camp Bucca, known as the “school of al-Qaeda.” James Skylar Gerrond, a former security officer at Camp Bucca, describes the camp as “a highly conducive environment for the emergence of extremism.”
B. Camp Bucca: An Unexpected Breeding Ground
It’s perplexing that an American camp in Iraq would serve as a meeting point for terrorists, providing them opportunities for contact and training. This raises the possibility that some of these terrorists were recruited by American organizations. According to US General Wesley Clark, the former Supreme Commander of NATO, “We created Frankenstein’s monster.” Al-Baghdadi connected with ex-army officers at Camp Bucca and ascended the ranks in the world of assassinations to eventually become the leader of ISIS.
II. The Rise of ISIS in Baghdad
A. Global Deception and Recruitment
Having deceived numerous young individuals globally, ISIS enticed them to join the fight, aiming to realize their vision of establishing an Islamic emirate on ISIS-controlled territory. Thousands of young men and women from Europe fell victim to ISIS propaganda, entering Syria through Turkey.
B. Mosul’s Capture: A Pivotal Moment
In the summer of 2014, ISIS terrorist militias initiated attacks on Iraq. On June 6, 2014, they successfully captured Mosul, a city with a population of 1.5 million, despite their own forces numbering only between 1,500 to 2,000 people.
C. Al-Baghdadi’s Declaration of the Caliphate
After seizing the city of Mosul in northern Iraq, al-Baghdadi declared the caliphate of ISIS in June 2014. Subsequently, in the same month, ISIS captured Tikrit, Saddam Hussein’s hometown. With Baghdad now on their radar, the fall of the capital appeared imminent. The pressing question arose: who could thwart the advance of this self-proclaimed Islamic Emirate?
III. General Soleimani’s Strategic Leadership
A. Thwarting the Advance
General Soleimani’s strategic leadership played a pivotal role in thwarting the advance of ISIS and disrupting its plans. Through his expert military guidance, Baghdad and Erbil were safeguarded from capture, and successful repulsion of ISIS attacks ensued. Soleimani’s recognition as a “unique commander” stems from his adept coordination of Shiite and Kurdish forces, exemplified in a joint operation against ISIS. The defeat of ISIS was unequivocally the outcome of exceptional cooperation between the Iraqi and Kurdish armies, a testament to General Soleimani’s unwavering efforts and strategic acumen in the ongoing battle against the terrorist organization.
B. Liberation of Amerli: A Defining Moment
General Soleimani’s strategic leadership shone during the summer of 2014 when he assumed command of Iraqi militias as a military advisor in the liberation of Amerli from an extended ISIS siege. Amerli, being the first city in Iraq to successfully repel a significant terrorist attack, endured a prolonged blockade. In this critical moment, General Soleimani orchestrated the gathering of Iraqi and Kurdish forces, skillfully coordinating their operations and contributing significantly to the successful liberation of Amerli.
C. Tikrit Offensive: A Major Setback for ISIS
In March 2015, Soleimani assumed command of the Badr Shiite Brigade during the major offensive on Tikrit, recognized as the most significant attack against ISIS to date. This operation proved successful and marked a crucial setback for ISIS, constituting its first major defeat. John Kerry, the US Secretary of State at the time, publicly acknowledged Soleimani’s role in liberating Tikrit, recognizing his contribution to the fight against ISIS, despite later referring to the group as a terrorist organization.
IV. Soleimani’s Uniting Influence
A. Bringing Forces Together in Amerli
In March 2015, Soleimani assumed command of the Badr Shiite Brigade during the major offensive on Tikrit, recognized as the most significant attack against ISIS to date. This operation proved successful and marked a crucial setback for ISIS, constituting its first major defeat. John Kerry, the US Secretary of State at the time, publicly acknowledged Soleimani’s role in liberating Tikrit, recognizing his contribution to the fight against ISIS, despite later referring to the group as a terrorist organization.
B. Praise from John Kerry for Tikrit Liberation
Soleimani’s consistent presence on the front lines against ISIS in Iraq compelled the group to withdraw from various regions in the country. Qassem Soleimani played an undeniable role. Not only was he a skilled military strategist, but he also demonstrated the ability to bring rivals and enemies together, even fostering reconciliation among them.
C. Compelling ISIS Withdrawals
American analyst Reinhard Baumgarten asserts that Sardar Soleimani was more than just a simple military figure: “No, this man was a genius.” He had the remarkable ability to unite groups and individuals who might not have been able to collaborate or even coexist.
D. Charismatic Diplomacy: Uniting Sects Against a Common Foe
Soleimani’s charismatic influence enabled him to bring together Shiites, Sunnis, Yazidis, and Christians in Iraq for a collective effort against ISIS. He earned widespread respect that endures, with many appreciating his role in eliminating the threat posed by ISIS.
V. Soleimani: The Strategic Genius
A. Reinhard Baumgarten’s Perspective
In March 2015, Soleimani assumed command of the Badr Shiite Brigade during the major offensive on Tikrit, recognized as the most significant attack against ISIS to date. This operation proved successful and marked a crucial setback for ISIS, constituting its first major defeat. John Kerry, the US Secretary of State at the time, publicly acknowledged Soleimani’s role in liberating Tikrit, recognizing his contribution to the fight against ISIS, despite later referring to the group as a terrorist organization.
B. Charismatic Power: Uniting Diverse Groups
Soleimani’s charismatic influence enabled him to bring together Shiites, Sunnis, Yazidis, and Christians in Iraq for a collective effort against ISIS. He earned widespread respect that endures, with many appreciating his role in eliminating the threat posed by ISIS.
C. Enduring Respect for Role in ISIS Elimination
General Soleimani personally led the operation codenamed Dawn 3, planning and coordinating the military attack to liberate the city of Al-Bukamal in eastern Syria, near the border with Iraq. The operation resulted in the defeat of ISIS. This mission marked the final significant engagement of Sardar Soleimani in Iraq.
VI. The Final Act: Operation Dawn 3
A. Liberation of Al-Bukamal and ISIS Defeat
In recognition of his services, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Sistani, the influential authority of Iraqi Shiites, expressed gratitude to General Qassem Soleimani for his role in liber
Conclusion
In conclusion, General Soleimani’s strategic leadership emerged as a beacon of resilience in the face of ISIS aggression. From thwarting their advances in Mosul to orchestrating pivotal offensives in Amerli and Tikrit, Soleimani’s influence was transformative. His ability to unite diverse factions and employ diplomatic finesse showcased a strategic genius. The indomitable Operation Dawn 3, culminating in the liberation of Al-Bukamal, marked the crescendo of his contributions. Soleimani’s legacy, acknowledged by figures like John Kerry and Ayatollah Seyed Ali Sistani, reverberates through history as a symbol of effective leadership and unity. The defeat of ISIS not only reshaped the Middle East but also cemented Soleimani’s enduring impact, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s complex geopolitical landscape.
