Brett McGurk: “As long as Assad is leading the government in Damascus, there is no way this war will ever end.”

Assad cannot remain in power if we are ever going to get out of this incredibly difficult situation.

Stabilizing areas after [ISIS] can be even more important than clearing areas from [ISIS].

We believe very strongly we have to have a political transition process that can lead to a sustainable transition inside Syria.

By helping the Iraqis address these challenges, the United States can gain leverage and influence while pursuing mutual goals.