Obama announces increased special forces in Syria

The US president Barack Obama on Monday announced there would be upto 250 more special forces deployed in Syria.

The increase is intended to help militia fighters gain territory from Islamic State.

"A small number of special operation forces are already on the ground in Syria and their expertise have been critical as local forces have driven ISIL out of key areas,"  Mr Obama said whilst speaking in Germany.

"Given their success I have approved the deployment of upto 250 additional US personnel in Syria, including special forces to keep up this momentum."

"They're not going to be leading the fight on the ground, but they will be essential in providing the training and assisting local forces as they continue to drive ISIL back."

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