We have heard all the rhetoric about the partners we now have as part of the coalition against ISIS…….and recently the fight has begun in Syria…….and the US was joined by 5 Arab countries in these attacks……which from the US point of view is a good thing….but what are their stories?

Jordan

Nervous about overt involvement in US-led effort but keen to put its vaunted intelligence capabilities and special forces at the disposal of coalition. Has allowed discreet CIA training for Syrian rebels. Worries about domestic backlash from Sunni extremists. Hosting millions of Syrian refugees and desperate for western financial help to cope with the burden.

Saudi Arabia

Frightened by Isis and stung by international criticism that it created it – a misreading of its enthusiastic backing for anti-Assad fighters. Now advertising a domestic crackdown on extremists and funding for jihadis in Syria and Iraq. Has been asked to use media and religious establishment for anti-radicalisation message. Has agreed to US request to train Syrian rebels and is reportedly prepared to use air power against Isis. Worries about strengthening Assad and Iran.

UAE

The most assertive power in the Gulf, obsessed by the threat from Islamists ranging from the Muslim Brotherhood to al-Qaida and Isis and happy to blur the huge differences between them. Believed to have offered to use its air force to attack Isis. Recently bombed Islamist targets in Libya from bases in Egypt without admitting to it. Wants wider action against jihadis in Yemen and north Africa.

Qatar

Fabulously wealthy emirate that has backed the Muslim Brotherhood across the Arab world, especially in Egypt, and used al-Jazeera TV as a cheerleader for the changes of the Arab spring. Like the Saudis, backed anti-Assad Islamist rebels in Syria to the point of recklessness and is now being attacked for supporting Isis. It insists that it does not, but it does have links to Jabhat al-Nusra, an extremist Syrian group. Signs that it is lowering its profile under Gulf and western pressure. Has carried out humanitarian relief work.

Bahrain

To host a conference on how to cut off funding to Isis.  Bahrain is the mystery partner…..why are they involved in this opening salvo?  They have basically no military…..what was their part?

These five ‘partners’ have done what was asked of them (possibly demanded to retain any aid) …..is their participation done now or will they be a constant participant?

According to Kerry there are many more ‘partners’….these just stepped up to the task, at least for now…….but what about tomorrow and the days and years ahead…….will they keep stepping?