UK cabinet
© presstv.irUK cabinet: Motion to extend airstrikes into Syria
The UK cabinet has approved a motion to pave the way for the country to extend its airstrikes against ISIL militants from Iraq to Syria. The motion was approved unanimously by the cabinet ministers at their weekly meeting, devoted entirely to Syria.
The motion says that ISIL presents a direct threat to the UK, that it presents an unprecedented threat to international peace and security. It also says that the increased military action is legal in line with the UN charter.
The ministers said it is "illogical" to carry out strikes in Iraq but not Syria as ISIL militants don't recognize the border between the countries. Defense Secretary Michael Fallon said the UK is already a target for ISIL extremists and the threat has "intensified". The motion is set to be voted on Wednesday.


Comment: This is complicated. You have an "enemy" who doesn't recognize borders - how convenient. You have a counter-strike country that, by international law, is supposed to recognize and abide by borders...but is independently electing to forego that restriction and invade. It seems sovereign status is dwindling down to a precious few, and we can guess who they are.


MPs rejected air strikes against Syrian government targets in 2013, but have since backed strikes against ISIL in Iraq. The opposition Labour party has accused the government of a "rush to war" by rejecting calls for a two-day debate.

A spokesman for Corbyn said: "By refusing a full two-day debate, David Cameron is demonstrating he knows the debate is running away from him, and that the case he made last week is falling apart."

The Labour party announced it will offer its MPs a free vote on the Tory government's proposal for UK airstrikes against ISIL terrorists in Syria. Corbyn and most of its members are opposed to the bombing saying the airstrikes in Syria could deteriorate the situation and increase support for ISIL. However, some Labour lawmakers want to back Prime Minister David Cameron's call for more bombing.