Fred Kundrata

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Fred Kundrata is the Democratic Nominee for U.S. Congress in Ohio’s 1st District.

Having served in the Air Force for 28 years, including combat time in the Persian Gulf War, I know that decisions to pursue military action should never be taken lightly. But ISIS presents a new kind of threat, a terrorist army with more than 10,000 fighters, American-made weapons, and billions in cash.

The United States must present a united front to the world on this critical national security issue. Congress should put partisanship aside and pass a resolution that gives President Obama the authority he needs to take on ISIS. In addition, Congress should fast-track funding for Kurdish and moderate Syrian forces, as requested by Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, that won’t be available until October 1. With the backing of Congress, the President will have clear authority to expand the mission, within defined parameters, and pursue the objective of destroying ISIS wherever it exists.

To be clear, I am not advocating for ground combat troops to reenter Iraq. However, additional troops in supportive roles, with a cautious eye toward mission creep, may be needed. American leadership and air power are necessary to win this conflict, but so are the efforts of our European and Middle Eastern allies. For that reason, the support of Congress must be conditional on the President building a coalition of nations, in particular Arab States, so that the United States is not acting alone.

Building a coalition is not unrealistic; calls for action from European and Middle Eastern leaders are being put forth daily. Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Egypt, among others, have declared war on radical Islam due to suicide bombings and terrorist attacks within their own borders. The Arab League, Qatar, Tunisia, and Bahrain condemned the murder of journalist James Foley, and they fear the rise of ISIS in their own countries. We can also count on the Kurds, who are fierce fighters and have been our allies since the Persian Gulf War.

Ultimately, the answer to ISIS lies in a stable, inclusive Iraqi government, coupled with a watchful eye toward Syria. But we must first confront this pressing national security risk. Among ISIS’ ranks are thousands of Europeans and a hundred Americans, who are prized for their fanatical ideology, willingness to carry out brutal acts of violence, and ability to travel back to the West with ease. Judging by his East London accent, experts believe Foley’s executioner is one of 1,500 British citizens fighting for ISIS.

I flew the first night of the Gulf War and several combat missions thereafter, and I believe lessons from that war can help us today. President George H.W. Bush had the full backing of Congress, the United Nations, and a wide range of Arab Nations. The backing of those countries portrayed the United States as a liberator and strong ally, rather than an invader. I urge our leadership in Washington to take a lesson from history, put aside their differences, and come together to ensure the safety of the American people.

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