The United States announced its intention to continue fighting against Islamic State in Syria and Iraq

Washington intends to continue the operation to combat Islamic State in Syria and Iraq (ISIS) terrorist group, despite the attack that killed three US troops in Jordan. This was indicated at a regular briefing for journalists by the White House National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby.

“These troops were conducting a vital mission in the region, aimed at helping us work with partners to counter ISIS,” he said. “And even as the Defense Department gathers more information about the attack, that mission must and will continue,” Kirby added.

The NSC official assured that “the counter-IS mission is separate and distinct” from Washington’s actions aimed at “supporting Israel and preventing a larger conflict in the region.” “We do not seek another war.  We do not seek to escalate. But we will absolutely do what is required to protect ourselves, to continue that mission, and to respond appropriately to these attacks,” he said.