WASHINGTON
A joint command has been established with more than 30 countries to combat and defeat militants who have seized large portions of Iraq and Syria, the U.S. announced Monday.
U.S. Central Command established the Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve, under the command of Lt. Gen. James Terry.
"More than 30 nations contributing to this effort provides us a strategic advantage through which we essentially harness the collective strength of all those involved,” Terry said in a statement.
The joint command hosted a conference Dec. 2-3 where representatives from member nations discussed the anti-ISIL effort, including how countries can contribute to the train and assist mission for local forces.
"During the conference, leaders from all over the world shared ideas and were able to engage in dialogue about their respective roles in the campaign," the force said in a statement.
The U.S. and partner nations have carried out more than 1,200 air strikes against ISIL in Iraq and Syria since operations began in August, according to the force.
www.aa.com.tr/en
