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Clinton Says She Agrees with U.S. Handling of Iraq

Democratic presidential frontrunner Hillary Clinton said Friday she supports the current U.S. policy in Iraq and there is “no role whatsoever for American soldiers on the ground” as ISIS continues to make gains in the country.
Image: Democratic presidential candidate Clinton talks to the media after a campaign appearance at Smuttynose Brewery in Hampton
Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton talks to the media after a campaign appearance at the Smuttynose Brewery while campaigning for the Democratic presidential nomination in Hampton, New Hampshire May 22, 2015. REUTERS/Brian SnyderBRIAN SNYDER / Reuters

Democratic presidential frontrunner Hillary Clinton said Friday she supports the current U.S. policy in Iraq and there is “no role whatsoever for American soldiers on the ground” as ISIS continues to make gains in the country.

“It's a very difficult situation, and I basically agree with the policy that we are currently following and that is American air support is available, American intelligence and surveillance is available,” Clinton told reporters after a campaign stop in New Hampshire.

She said there is no role for U.S. combat troops in Iraq, but that American forces should be available to train and advise Iraqi forces in their struggle against Islamic militants.

Clinton’s comments come as ISIS fighters advance east after taking Ramadi, one of its most significant gains in the past year. Republicans have criticized the president for not outlining a broader strategy to help Iraqi forces combat the terror group.

“This has to be fought by and won by Iraqis,” Clinton said.

— Andrew Rafferty