Parliament has given its acceptance to send Norwegian troops to Syria. The treatment is accelerated because the fight against IS going better than expected.
Defense Minister Ine Eriksen Søreide explained that the local forces battling extremist group have more progress than expected.
– It is therefore more important to train the coalition forces, advise them and provide operational support to local groups on Syrian territory in their fight against ISIS, she said.
Around 60 soldiers!
When the government in May this year announced the Norwegian contribution of about 60 soldiers, it was stated that the mandate was to train, advice and provide operational support from Syrian territory, “if the operation concept requires it.”
The Government announced that when the operation is developed and the target reached on training and support of Syrian resources solders would come back. Parliament has been particularly consulted on this.
According to VG, the matter was discussed in a closed meeting in the expanded defense and foreign affairs committee on Wednesday despite the fact that the plan was that Parliament would not discuss the matter until the autumn.
Operational support in Syria
– The Government has consulted Parliament and informed of developments. Depending on the situation, the Norwegian forces could train, advice and provide operational support also to Syrian resources, said by defense minister.
The force will provide training, consulting and operational support to local Syrian groups who are battling ISIS. It shall have its main base in Jordan and departure during the summer.
It will be done a continuous risk assessment for the mission, said by the government.
Source: NTB scanpix / Norway Today
