The Washington Post reports that the US “is preparing to expand its military footprint in Iraq as the Obama administration races to help the country regain momentum in its fight against the Islamic State.”  

“If the plan is approved, the administration is expected to send around 400 additional troops to advise Iraqi forces. There are now 3,080 U.S. service members in Iraq… The changes come as U.S. officials grapple with the continuing shortcomings of Iraqi forces, on whom the U.S. strategy against the militant group relies.”  

“A U.S. official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss ongoing deliberations, said the United States would probably expand its presence in Anbar province. Several assessment visits have been made to a military base near the town of Habbaniyah, with a view to moving U.S. advisers to the site. That would put the American troops less then 20 miles outside Ramadi and allow them to help Iraqi forces and tribal fighters prepare for a battle to retake the city.”