What are risks and benefits of studying abroad?

What are the risks and benefits of the "bomb and train" approach to fighting ISIS?

• Referring to the approach America, France, Netherlands, etc are taking - send planes to drop bombs and military personell to train local fighters. Possible benefits: Reduced risk of lives lost (at least for the external countries that are helping) Better political position with anti-war voters (and those who believe the US should mind their own business) Possible risks: "Bomb and train" might be enough to cause problems but not actually end the conflict Could be training or equipping fighters that will cause problems tomorrow With no boots on the ground, limited ability to mitigate risks, such as extremists stealing weapons sent by Western nations, etc. What risks and benefits do you think are most important to world leaders in deciding their approach?

• Answer:

  By bombing they create a war of attrition. That may have a value fighting a nation but ISIS is not a nation it is more of an ad hoc bunch of extremists with an intent of becoming one (no idea how they can achieve it with genocidal approach they are showing as there are no cases of success in 100+ years). The downside is that no one knows what support they have beyond their area of occupation. If they have support then their brand of terrorism can be exported to other 'fronts'.