King: War with ISIS could last ‘another 10, 15 years’

The war against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) could last more than a decade, Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) told reporters on Thursday.

“I think we do have a lot to debate. Realize this is not just bombing a mountainside or securing a dam. This is a war that we want for another 10, 15 years,” said King, of the House Intelligence Committee.

{mosads}When asked whether Congress might rethink defense spending cuts in light of the conflict, King replied, “To do that, I think we have to recalibrate our defense and realize we have to be on a war-time footing when it comes to spending.”

Obama administration officials have reportedly said that the campaign to defeat ISIS could take at least three years, and the White House could ask Congress for a broader authorization beyond Title 10, which King said wouldn’t be coming in the next couple of weeks.

“There could be, but that wouldn’t happen until after [lawmakers] come back in November,” he said.

Congress needs to make sure the president does carry through “extensive and sustained” bombing attacks in Iraq and Syria, King said.

“We’re not going to be doing piecemeal or partial attacks.”