Ep 8. Battle for Iraq/Hunting ISIS

In season 35 episode 8 of Frontline, viewers are taken on a journey through the complex and dangerous battle for Iraq and the hunt for the terrorist organization ISIS. The episode opens with a detailed account of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, which led to the toppling of Saddam Hussein and the beginning of a lengthy and costly conflict.

From there, the focus shifts to the emergence of ISIS and the group's rapid expansion across Iraq and Syria in 2014. Viewers are provided with an in-depth look at the factors that contributed to the rise of the organization, including the deep sectarian divides within Iraq and the country's weak and corrupt government.

The episode features interviews with a range of experts, including journalists, military officials, and political analysts, who provide their insights into the ongoing conflict. Viewers learn about the strategies being employed by both sides and the challenges faced by those tasked with fighting ISIS.

One of the most compelling aspects of the episode is its focus on the human toll of the conflict. Interviews with civilians, soldiers, and refugees paint a vivid picture of the devastating impact that the violence has had on communities throughout Iraq and Syria. Viewers also gain insight into the difficult choices faced by those who have been forced to flee their homes and the challenges of living in refugee camps.

Throughout the episode, viewers are prompted to consider the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict. The role of foreign powers like the United States, Russia, and Iran is examined, as is the complex web of alliances and rivalries that shape the conflict. The episode also looks at the impact of the conflict on neighboring countries, including the rise of sectarian tensions throughout the region.

Overall, Frontline season 35 episode 8 offers a comprehensive and compelling look at the complex and ongoing battle for Iraq and the hunt for ISIS. Through a combination of expert analysis and personal stories, viewers come away with a deeper understanding of the factors driving the conflict and the human toll it is exacting. For anyone interested in the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and its global ramifications, this episode is not to be missed.