The U.S.-led military mission against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) now has a name, the Pentagon announced Wednesday: Operation Inherent Resolve.
{mosads}”The name Inherent Resolve is intended to reflect the unwavering resolve and deep commitment of the U.S. and partner nations in the region and around the globe to eliminate” ISIS, a U.S. Central Command statement said.
“It also symbolizes the willingness and dedication of coalition members to work closely with our friends in the region and apply all available dimensions of national power necessary — diplomatic, informational, military, economic — to degrade and ultimately destroy” the terrorist group, Centcom said.
The naming of the U.S.-led military air campaign against ISIS ends months of uncertainty over what to call the operation, which began in August.
There were questions as to whether the administration was reluctant to name the military action and acknowledge a new war in Iraq, but defense officials said the campaign had simply grown to an extent where a name was feasible.
The United Kingdom and France had named their military operations in Iraq against ISIS in September — Operation Shader and Operation Chammal, respectively.
Having a name will pave the way for more dedicated staffing, resourcing and organization, Pentagon spokesman Rear Adm. John Kirby said on Oct. 3.
It will also pave the way for troops serving in Iraq in the fight against ISIS to receive new Operation Inherent Resolve campaign medals.
— Updated at 1:45 p.m.