The US led coalition is “intensifying” its operations against IS in northern Syria, according to US President Barack Obama. But President Obama has ruled out sending additional troops to the area.
He added that “effective partner on the ground” was needed to defeat IS.
Recently IS has gained control of Ain Issa from Kurdish led forces. YPG fighters and Syrian rebels had only seized Ain Issa from IS two weeks ago.
Mr Obama’s remarks followed one of the heaviest bombings of IS since coalition bombing started in September last year. He has reiterated their resolve to destroy oil and gas facilities as it funds most of IS activities.
The President has however indicated that the fight will be long and tough.
The jihadist group had suffered a series of defeats in areas along the Turkish border.
