In films like American Sniper and The Interview, Americans are the heroes and “furriners” are the targets: an undifferentiated group of people so alien that they’re practically subhuman.
How to Get Serious About Ending the ISIS War
A long-term alternative to war can only be built by popular movements in Iraq and Syria. These movements still matter, and they deserve our solidarity — not our bombs.
Burning Alive of Jordanian Fighter Pilot More Evidence Islamic State Refuses to Grow Up
By burning alive Jordanian fighter pilot Moaz al-Kasasbeh, the Islamic State reinforced an apparent commitment to behave like a terrorist organization, not a state.
Gunman As Hero, Children As Targets, Iraq As Backdrop: A Review of ‘American Sniper’
“American Sniper” is well acted, slickly produced, and occasionally gripping. It’s also war propaganda.
How Good Is the Islamic State at Governing?
The Islamic State’s initial attempts at governing have been disrupted by Western airstrikes.
Saudi Arabia and the Islamic State’s Legal Codes Too Close for Comfort
Just like the Islamist State, Saudi Arabia flogs and prescribes hanging and stoning to death.
Between Nuke Talks and Opposition to Islamic State, U.S. and Iran Becoming Not-so-Strange Bedfellows
Just how involved is Iran in the fight against the Islamic State?
Charlie Hebdo: Middle East Blowback?
After the Paris massacre, European governments should resist narratives of civilizational conflict and push for a ceasefire in the Syrian war.
Why Are Women Joining the Islamic State?
For some women in Iraq and Syria, the Islamic State offers something no one else has given them before: power.
A Future Ebola Outbreak in the Islamic State Should Not Be Cause for Western Gloating
While reports of Ebola in the Islamic State have yet to be confirmed, an outbreak would not only present a crisis but opportunities for both it and the West.