Harper sending troops to Iraq

The Harper government is sending troops to Iraq.

As reported in the media, several dozen Canadian soldiers, and possibly many more, will be sent to Iraq to advise that country’s military forces in fighting Islamic fighters.

Rideau Institute calls move “reckless”

On national media, the Rideau Institute’s Peggy Mason told Global National that,

Without a comprehensive strategy it is a reckless step, and it is a step that I don’t believe that Canadians want.

The deployment will place Canadian troops directly on the front lines. The Canadians will join U.S. troops in the northern part of Iraq to provide advice to Iraqi and Kurdish forces battling the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, also known as ISIL.

The deployment is for 30 days, but will likely be extended. Canada’s contribution could be further increased once a strategy with its allies has been worked out.