Winning the Counterinsurgency Fight in Iraq: The Role of Political Culture in Counterinsurgency Warfare 2003-2006 in Iraq
Abstract
This monograph provides insight into the importance of political culture in relation to developing a counterinsurgency strategy. This study answers the research question; how does the political culture of Iraq impact the U.S. ability to combat insurgency operations and establish an acceptable form of governance in Iraq? The framework of this monograph originated from the work of David Galula; the author of Counterinsurgency Warfare Theory and Practice. The purpose of this monograph is to assess the importance of political culture in COIN. I submit that our counterinsurgency strategy is not as effective or efficient due to the lack of focus placed on understanding the political culture of Iraq and more importantly the religious connotations associated with it. It is critical for the United States Government (U.S.G.) to alter their counterinsurgency strategy in Iraq to address the center of gravity (COG) which is the support of the counterinsurgency. The U.S.G. should operate along lines of operation (LOOs) to attack the COG. The LOOs are security, governance/ government, economy, cultural awareness, and leadership. The political culture of Iraq remains in a state of transition the U.S.G. must demonstrate progress to the people of Iraq who are growing restless with the instability of the country. Interagency cooperation is critical to the success of the U.S.G. in this counterinsurgency fight.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 26, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA450481
Entities
People
- Joseph Pepper Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College