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GUEST: Rahul Mahajan, sociologist and author of Full Spectrum Dominance: US Power in Iraq and Beyond.

The US has been launching air strikes against Syria as part of its Operation Inherent Resolve, aimed at the Islamic State. The bombs come just a few days into the implementation of a new agreement between the US and Russia called “Cessation of Hostilities.” Syrian civilians continue to be killed by all sides in the war, including President Bashar Al Assad, US and Russian strikes, and militant groups.

Meanwhile in Iraq, where an operation against ISIS is also under way, the US says it has captured an ISIS operative. And, in Libya, where ISIS apparently has gathered strength, the US is preparing to launch a similar operation.

Very little of the US’s war efforts in Iraq, Syria, or Libya is entering the US election-related discourse.