CBS News reports that “American fighter jets and drones continued to pound Islamic State militants in Iraq Wednesday, and military planners weighed the possibility of sending a small number of additional U.S. troops to Baghdad, U.S. officials said, even as the insurgents threatened to kill a second American captive in retribution for any continued attacks.”  

“CBS News correspondent Margaret Brennan reports that the State Department has requested additional security personnel to protect U.S. facilities in and around Baghdad. That request has to be reviewed by Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and has not yet been approved. The Pentagon is seriously considering fulfilling the request.”  

“According to a senior U.S. official, the number of additional troops currently under discussion would be fewer than 300, but there has been no final decision yet by Pentagon leaders.”