Obama authorizes 'fewer than 50' US special forces to deploy to northern Syria

The White House says that sending fewer than 50 special operations forces for deployment on the ground in northern Syria will have an impact and intensify the U.S. effort against the Islamic State.

Without specifying the exact number, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said that the new forces would amplify President Barack Obama's policy of supporting local forces in Syria as they battle the Islamic State militants.

Earnest said the forces will offer advice and support to the moderate opposition troops.

But Earnest says it's not a combat mission. He declined to give details on their role.

This marks the first time American troops will be working openly on the ground in the war-torn country.

- AP