President Obama is seeking “limited authorization” for expanding U.S. military force in the Middle East, including some American boots on the ground, sources tell the Washington Examiner.
The House will delay a planned Thursday vote on a bill to keep the government funded past the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30. They are postponing debate on the continuing resolution in order to give members time to consider the sudden White House request.
A knowledgeable source close to the talks said Obama is seeking special authority to allow American soldier to train and provide equipment to Syrian rebels and others in the region who are combating the terrorist organization Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
There are currently more than 1,000 American soldiers in the region.
Republican aides said lawmakers need to mull it over.
“Members are finally getting briefed on the range of options the president is contemplating, and the White House has made a request to add a limited authorization to the CR on an issue of high importance,” a senior GOP aide told the Examiner. “We’re doing our due diligence and discussing it with our members. That’s the right thing to do.”
Obama will address the nation tonight about his plans for combating the growing threat of ISIS.
