Israeli politician and former military chief Ehud Barak is well-known for his fervent views on national security. He made a number of statements regarding international conflicts while serving as Israel's prime minister that attracted attention from around the world.

A situation involving ISIS, a militant organization infamous for its extreme violence and territorial ambitions, was mentioned in one of these remarks. Barak's remark brought to light what he saw as a mismatch between ISIS's perceived military might and their real combat prowess. In his view, ISIS had not fought major conflicts against well-trained armies, even though they may have been successful in inciting fear through violent strategies like suicide bombings and ambushes.

Barak's remarks were a component of a larger criticism of the way that issues of global security are viewed and handled. According to him, the media presence and occasional attacks of extremist groups should not be used by the international community to overestimate their military capabilities. By highlighting the significance of knowing adversaries' actual capabilities rather than being duped by propaganda, he hoped to have an impact on strategic decision-making.

Barak's statement could be compared, using a metaphor, to pointing out a paper tiger that is roaring loudly but avoiding actual conflict with more powerful opponents. His argument that ISIS lacks real combat experience and efficacy against more experienced military forces is further supported by this comparison.

Because they occasionally questioned accepted narratives or presumptions about international conflicts, Ehud Barak's remarks frequently provoked discussion among political analysts and the general public. His observations are still regarded as important when talking about contemporary warfare and national security.