"Just as I approved additional support for Iraqi forces against ISIL [another acronym for IS], I've decided to increase US support for local forces fighting ISIL in Syria,” remarked Obama.
“A small number of special operations forces are already on the ground in Syria and their expertise has been critical as local forces have driven ISIL out of key areas," stated Obama.
"So given their success I've approved the deployment of up to 250 additional US personnel in Syria including special forces to keep up this momentum," he added.
Obama stressed that US troops will not be leading the fight on the ground but they will be essential in training and assisting local forces.
"So make no mistake these terrorists will learn the same lesson as others before them have, which is your hatred is no match for our nations united in the defence of our way of life," he said, adding that the increase would bring the number of US special forces in the country to as many as 300 troops, including special forces.
The US President further outlined that he would continue to pursue diplomatic solutions to ending the Syrian civil war.
"Just as we remain relentless on the military front we're not going to give up on diplomacy to end the civil war in Syria because the suffering of the people in Syria has to end and that requires an effective political transition," he remarked.
Source: CNN
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