US preparing training program for moderate Syrian opposition

The US is preparing a program to train and equip the moderate Syrian opposition, the State Department said.

"We are also committed to the success of the people we train through the program, and so we still – we are continuing to finalize the full complement of support that we might provide to the forces who have gone through the train and equip program," State Department acting deputy spokesman Jeff Rathke said in a press briefing.

"We remain committed to strengthening the moderate opposition so that it can serve as a counterweight – against both extremism and the Assad regime. And we continue to go to great lengths to ensure that we are supporting the moderate opposition. And we’re encouraging other countries to support aid to moderate voices as well," Rathke said.

"With regard to the question of no-fly zones, if that’s what you’re really getting at, the creation and enforcement of no-fly zones and other militarily enforced zones would present significant challenges, including military, humanitarian, and financial challenges that would have to be considered in the context of our broader Syria policy."
Source: MENA