The commander of the U.S.-led coalition fighting the Islamic State says coalition partners have promised to put 1,500 military advisers on the ground in Iraq.
Army Lieutenant General James Terry said in Kuwait City Monday they would join the U.S. forces already there training the Iraqi army. But when asked if he believes more U.S. troops are needed in Iraq, Terry said he is comfortable with the boots on the ground he has right now.
The general said Islamic State militants are now on the defensive and trying to hold on to the parts of Iraq they control. But he said the group is still able to carry out attacks.
Also visiting Kuwait City was U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, who said Iraqi forces have gained a "new momentum" in their fight to seize back territory from the militants.
U.S.-led airstrikes on Islamic State have helped the Iraqi army make progress in their battle against the extremists.
