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August 3, 2015

Obama Authorizes Airstrikes to Defend U.S.-Trained Syrian Rebels 
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President Obama has authorized U.S. airstrikes to defend U.S.-trained
Syrian rebels who come under attack, including from the Syrian
government. Fewer than 60 rebels have completed the U.S. training
program aimed at defeating the self-proclaimed Islamic State. The
first-known U.S. airstrikes to defend the forces from militants were
launched last week. Anonymous officials told news outlets the United
States would provide offensive strikes to support advances against ISIL
but defend the rebels against any group that attacks them. Meanwhile, a
Syrian government warplane has crashed amid air raids in the rebel-held
northwestern town of Ariha, killing at least 12 people and injuring
dozens.

 

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