Iran Offers Aid, Not Troops, to Iraq

As country descends into worst violence since American withdrawal

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A top Iranian military officer said Monday that Iran is willing to help Iraq’s embattled government by providing military aid, but that it won’t send troops.

Gen. Mohammed Hejazi, the deputy commander of Iran’s armed forces, told local reporters that Iran is willing to help Iraq fight terrorists as the country descends into the worst violence since American troops withdrew, the New York Times reports.

“Such a request has not been officially made,” Hejazi told the state Islamic Republic News Agency. “Equipment and advice will be given if they ask for it, but as for forces, the Iraqis are very powerful themselves.

Secretary of State John Kerry has also said that the United States may offer assistance but will not send troops. Hejazi said Iran will not participate in any joint missions with the U.S.

[NYT]