Reuters reports that NATO has decided against sending ground troops to fight Daesh in Syria, and will instead focus on strengthening local forces already involved in the conflict.
"That is not on the agenda of the coalition and the NATO allies," said NATO General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg in an interview with a Swiss newspaper. He also indictated that some NATO countries are already have troops fighting Daesh, and they do not want to overextend their resources.
"The United States has a limited number of special forces. In the foreground, however, is strengthening local forces. This is not easy, but it's the only option," Stoltenberg continued.
NATO, will, however, support those currently fighting Daesh with non-personnel assistance. In the wake of an increase in Islamophobic violence, Stoltenberg further clarified that fighting Daesh should not be considered the West versus Islam. It is a battle against "extremism and terrorism."
"Muslims are on the front line in this war. Most victims are Muslims, and most of those who fight against the IS are Muslims. We can not carry on this struggle for them," he said.
