Anti-IS Coalition Vows Support For Iraqi Plan

Coalition countries fighting the Islamic State (IS) group have pledged their "firm support" for an Iraqi plan to tackle IS advances in Iraq's western Anbar Province.

Coalition partners made the pledge in a joint statement issued after a conference in Paris on June 2 which brought together ministers from some 20 countries, including the United States but not Russia, Iran, or Syria.

Under the emergency plan adopted by Iraq’s cabinet after the fall of Ramadi last month, the Iraqis hope to mobilize the Sunni tribes of Anbar Province and ensure Shi’ite militias are operating under Baghdad's authority.

The coalition also called for the "speedy launch of a UN-facilitated, genuine, and inclusive political process" in Syria.

French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said the allies reaffirmed their "unity and common determination" to fight the IS group, but added that the battle would be "long-term."

Based on reporting by AFP and Reuters