Photo: Gokhan Sahin/Getty Images
The mini-surge does not include combat, but will double the number of troops currently training and advising Iraqi and Kurdish forces to fight the Islamic State. “Secretary Hagel made this recommendation to President Obama based on the request of the Government of Iraq, U.S. Central Command’s assessment of Iraqi units, the progress Iraqi security forces have made in the field, and in concert with the development of a coalition campaign plan to defend key areas and go on the offensive against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant,” the Pentagon explained. The White House is also asking Congress for another $5.6 billion to keep ISIS at bay. But still no “boots on the ground,” much to Coach K’s dismay.
