The Secret History of ISIS
The signs of impending doom were apparent. The failure to act on them was responsible for the despicable rise of the world’s most terrifying terrorist organization. The Secret History of ISIS details the formation of ISIS, their relentless bloodshed across the globe, and the steps that were not taken that would have prevented them from ruling at all.
The man who is ultimately responsible for ISIS – Abu Musab al-Zarqaw – had been on the CIA’s radar prior to the invasion of Iraq. As documented in the movie, the agency attempted to obtain permission from the White House to strike al-Zarqawi prior to the conflict, but they were unsuccessful. The removal of Sadam Hussein afforded al-Zarqawi an opportunity to enter.
The movie features interviews with the agents who participated in this power struggle, they describe their frustration with the administration of Bush over how the narrative of their research was significantly altered.
ISIS’ insurgency was featured in numerous bombings that killed numerous people, massacres, beheadings, and the taking of important territory in Iraq. It initiated a ten-year conflict that resulted in unimaginable losses and a terrified world.
Assisted by journalists, intelligence agents and former government officials including Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and counter-terrorism advisor Richard Clarke, the filmmakers documented the conflicts between Osama bin Laden and Ayman al-Zarqawi, the barbaric methods by which ISIS grew, and the lack of presidential attention to the threat posed by the terrorist organization. These factors have facilitated ISIS’ ability to transcend the confines of a localized cancer and to spread their influence across nearly 90 attacks across the globe.
The movie doesn’t hesitate to show the atrocious crimes perpetrated by ISIS during their bloodthirsty campaign. As a result, skeptical viewers may practice caution when watching. However, a complete portrait of these violent methods and the excruciating consequences is crucial to understanding the nature of the adversary. Frontline’s always-impressive The Secret History of ISIS is a significant and informative overview of this pivotal era.
Directed by: Michael Kirk
