The war against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria is now Operation Inherent Resolve.
U.S. Central Command officials announced the choice Wednesday, saying it “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 the terrorist group … and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community.”
Observers had wondered why the campaign, which started more than a month ago, had not been given a name, with jokesters inventing options such as “Operation That’s My Humvee.”
The Wall Street Journal reported Oct. 3 that Inherent Resolve was an early contender for the name, but quoted officials as saying it had been rejected.
“It is just kind of bleh,” an unnamed military officer told the Journal.
Pentagon spokesman Rear Adm. John Kirby said other nations in the U.S.-led coalition had agreed to the name, which he said signifies a multilateral, multinational approach.
“There was a general sense of approval of it,” he said. “It says what it means. And for us what it means is we are going to stay active and determined to get after this threat.”
