The Islamic State's Gains Mask Its Weakness

The Islamic State recently achieved several major victories in Syria and Iraq. Over the last week, militants pushed Iraqi government troops out of large portions of Ramadi, the capital of Anbar province. The group is now focusing its attacks on government-held territory between Ramadi and Fallujah. In Syria, the Islamic State also made gains in Homs governorate, around the strategic crossroads town of Tadmur, also known as Palmyra, essentially cutting supply lines to government forces stationed in Deir el-Zour to the northeast. There were also less successful attacks on government positions at Kweiris air base and Deir el-Zour governorate, which showcase the group's ability to launch multi-pronged attacks over a large region.

The latest flurry of successful offensives highlight the continued threat the militant organization poses not only to Baghdad and Damascus, but also to fellow rebel groups and militias. The recent victories will in turn bolster the Islamic State with an influx of weapons, supplies and recruits. Yet, these gains mask structural problems the Islamic State must overcome as it battles formidable opponents in two different countries.