Updated

Syndicated Columnist and Fox News contributor Charles Krauthammer told viewers Monday on “Special Report with Bret Baier” that White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest calling the war against ISIS a “narrative fight” was clearly a mistake, but a reflection of the administration’s policy.

“It reflects the president’s idea, which is that diplomacy, soft power and all this is what international relations is all about,” he said. “In other words, the war on terror is a war on narratives, is a war of ideas, hearts and minds.”

Krauthammer went on to explain that while he agrees it is a battle over hearts and minds, hearts and mind are ultimately swayed by what happens on the ground.

He added that ISIS recruitment efforts are dwindling due to a losing ground battle.

"If you’re gonna give your life to the jihad, you’re not gonna do it if you don’t think the jihad is going to succeed,” said Krauthammer.