The Soufan Group's e-briefing on the raid has several good points, including just who exactly is the target and ends with:
As important as the killing of ‘Abu Sayyaf’ is, as long as the group’s foes remain incapable of defense and offense outside of their comfort zone, and the ground reality remains one of poor governance and persistent grievance, the group will remain a serious threat to the region and beyond.
Link:http://soufangroup.com/tsg-intelbrie...ship-in-syria/

This short ISW briefing is harsh and ends with:
Partnership is also essential, because the U.S. is no longer a legitimate ally in the eyes of many populations in the regionPartnership is also essential, because the U.S. is no longer a legitimate ally in the eyes of many populations in the region.
Link:http://understandingwar.org/report/i...daptive-enemy?