US Seeks Australia’s Help in Battling ISIL in Syria

The United States has sent a formal request to Australia to expand its air warfare against the Islamic State (ISIL) jihadist group to include Syria, the Australian broadcaster ABC reported Friday.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) – According to the broadcaster, Australia has already joined the offensive against targets in Iraq, but so far has refrained from participating in the US-led international coalition’s airstrikes in Syria.

Federal Treasurer Joe Hockey said on ABC’s RN Breakfast show that the proposal would be given thorough consideration.

On August 13, Dan Tehan, who heads the Australian Parliament's intelligence and security committee, said Australia should start bombing ISIL positions in Syria.

ISIL has seized large parts of Iraq and Syria. The group's positions are currently targeted by airstrikes conducted by the US-led international coalition, while Iraqi, Kurdish and forces are fighting the militants on the ground.

Over 100 Australians are fighting alongside terrorist organizations in the Middle East, including Islamic State, while another 150 people are believed to be supporting militant groups from within the country, according to Australian government official data.