The U.S. Army's strategic shift in Iraq during 2007-2008 is examined. This brochure, the first in a series on U.S. Army campaigns in Iraq, details the escalating insurgent activities and the command structure of U.S. forces. It covers pivotal operations such as Fardh al-Qanoono, Phantom Thunder, Arrowhead Ripper, Marne Torch, and Phantom Strike. The work concludes with an overview of the status of forces agreement negotiated between the United States and Iraq by the close of 2008.

This brochure serves as an introductory volume to a series focusing on U.S. Army campaigns in Iraq. Its content is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the strategic and operational landscape during the 2007-2008 surge. The author, Nicholas J. Schlosser, offers an overview of the regional context and the military command structure, setting the stage for detailed operational discussions. The inclusion of specific named operations and the concluding discussion of the Status of Forces Agreement suggest a focus on factual reporting and historical analysis for an informed audience.