All Policy Analysis by Michael Knights

Saudi-led air operations in Yemen have badly lost their way, neither achieving their objectives nor respecting international norms.

It's time to let the U.S. military get creative with partners on the ground in Iraq, and let the Air Force unleash its full capabilities against ISIS.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia have made an impressive contribution to recapturing Aden from Houthi-Saleh forces, building a base for future operations to secure central Yemeni cities.

A post-sanctions windfall would give Tehran ample capacity to rescue the Syrian regime, reshape Iraq's political environment, expand its terrorist proxy activities in various theaters, and otherwise amplify the effects of its destabilizing regional posture.

Iraq's army can make a comeback with a well-chosen chief of staff and a focus on leadership, discipline, and training.

Without more decisive steps and a greater commitment of forces, the United States cannot expect to achieve its goals against the Islamic State.

Three Iraq experts probe the rising influence of Shiite militias -- many backed by Iran -- on Iraq's security and political landscapes.

Since regaining Tikrit, the Iraqi government has seemingly listened to Washington's advice about delaying an undermanned campaign to retake Mosul, focusing instead on marshalling sufficient cross-sectarian forces in western Anbar province.

Washington can help by providing additional airpower and advisory assistance, but Iraqis must take the lead in combining various Sunni and Shiite forces into an effective Anbar counteroffensive.

The Kurds have made a conscious effort to step back from a damaging feud with the United States over weapons shipments.

There is nothing mystical about ISIS as a defensive force: where it has succeeded, it has done so almost entirely due to the absence of effective opposition, not because of its inherent strength.

Washington can play a valuable behind-the-scenes role in Operation Decisive Storm, maximizing the chance that U.S. allies can prevent a Houthi takeover.