WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. and coalition airstrikes have forced some Islamic State militants out of the Syrian border town of Kobani, but it may yet fall under the extremists’ control because air power alone cannot prevent it, a Pentagon spokesman said Wednesday.

“Kobani could be taken. We recognize that,” Rear Adm. John Kirby, the Pentagon press secretary, told reporters. “We’re doing everything we can from the air to try to halt the momentum of ISIL against that town,” he added, using a common acronym for the Islamic State group. “Air power is not going to be alone enough to save that city.”