WASHINGTON, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- On Wednesday, the House of Representatives passed a spending bill that includes an amendment authorizing the U.S. to train and arm Syrian rebels.
The bill passed 273-156 with bipartisan support.
Arming and training the rebels is one part of President Barack Obama's plan to defeat the Islamic State.
A majority of Democrats joined the president, but made it clear their support will not extend to putting U.S. troops on the ground.
Also on Wednesday, Obama made it clear there will be no U.S. combat troops in Iraq.
The authorization allows for 5,000 Syrian rebels to be trained, stipulating the administration give status updates to Congress.
The bill now heads to the Senate, where it is expected to pass as early as Thursday.
