WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama has authorized the deployment of an additional 1,500 troops to Iraq to help advise and train Iraqi forces as they seek to counter the Islamic State, also known as ISIL.
Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel recommended the president authorize the additional forces at the request of the Iraqi government and in consultation with U.S. Central Command's assessments, explained Pentagon Press Secretary Rear Adm. John Kirby.