Obama outlines a short term/long term, snapshot/big picture approach to Iraq situation.

Obama's statements today seemed to outline a dual set of goals. Or a triple set of goals.

Support the established Iraqi government, such as it is, and its military to quell ISIS assaults in the short term.

Support a broader, long term diplomatic solution if Iraq is to remain a nation. He mentioned "Shia, Sunni, Kurd involvement" a number of times as all players in any future for unified Iraq.

Support no "mission creep".

I liked his emphasis on Iraq taking care of Iraq on its own. The US can't fix this. And the side note to Iran about exacerbating the situation.

As well as his public recognition of regional sectarian conflicts.