ISIL attack Ayn al-Asad Airbase, Iraq

On 12 February 2015, ISIL forces took the town of Khan al-Baghdadi, 100 miles west of Baghdad and 5 miles from the Ayn al-Asad Airbase in Anbar Province, Iraq.  This morning, 13 February 2015, the airbase was attacked by 20-25 ISIL fighters reportedly wearing Iraqi uniforms and some wearing suicide-belts.  They were engaged by Iraqi Security Forces – three detonated their suicide-belts and five were shot dead.

The airbase was captured in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom and became the largest Coalition base in western Iraq and the second largest US airbase.  The base was officially closed on 31 December 2011.  US forces moved back to the airbase late last year to train the Iraqi Security Forces.

The airbase has come under attack on a number of occasions since December 2014 but, as the debate takes place in the US concerning the passage of an Authorization of Military Force (AUMF) against ISIL, the attack, that had no hope of causing any serious damage, could be sending a number of messages:

1. Refuting President Obama’s claim that airpower and the training of Iraqi forces has halted the ISIL advance.
2. Drawing US forces into combat.
3. A deterrence to Jordan – the airbase is the largest military installation in Anbar Province that borders with Jordan.

4. Showing that US trainers are vulnerable – thus disrupting a major part of current US strategy.
5. Deterring other nations that be consider sending military training teams.
6. A boost to ISIL morale after recent territorial setbacks, such as Kobane.
7. A recruitment drive by showing that they are directly confronting the US.
8. A change of tactic against foreigners in Iraq to offset the lack of hostages for publicity purposes.
 

As the AUMF is debated, ISIL Strategic Communication messaging may dictate tactical engagements.