House veterans divided on Syria measure

WASHINGTON (AP) — The effort to train and arm Syrian rebels proved a tough sell with many Iraq and Afghanistan veterans now serving in the House. Wariness among veterans crossed party lines as Republicans Democrats alike said they feared weapons and training would one day be used against Americans instead of against militants seeking an Islamic state.

Overall, eight Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in the House opposed President Barack Obama’s plan to arm and train the rebels when it cleared the House Wednesday. Seven voted for the measure, which was being considered Thursday in the Senate.