Australia Joins US Airstrikes Against ISIL

KABUL: (Middle East Press) Australia would consider joining US-led airstrikes to prevent the progress of the ISIL Takfiri terrorists in Iraq, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott says.

Abbott said Thursday that Australia is ready for supporting by taking part in the airstrikes and by providing military advisers once it receives a request.

The Australian premier said “a specific request for military assistance hasn’t yet come” but that if it does it would be considered.

Abbott’s comments came shortly after US President Barack Obama promised to join up a “broad coalition of partners” to destroy the terrorist group.

Intelligence agencies believe about 60 Australians are fighting with terrorist groups in Iraq and Syria, about 100 Australians are supporting those organizations, and at least 20 people have returned home after participating in the gun battles.

The ISIL terrorists are in control of some areas in Syria and have seized large swathes of land in neighboring Iraq.

They are notorious for carrying out horrific acts of violence in the areas they have taken, including the mass execution of civilians as well as including public decapitations and crucifixions.