France joins the battle against ISIS – launches first air strike in Syria

Till now France had been participating in air strikes against ISIS in Iraq as a part of the US led coalition and had resisted air strikes in Syria because it was felt that such an action would strengthen the hands of Bashar al-Assad. However, the situation has now changed and France has, for the first time, carried out its first airstrikes in Syria.
This has been announced by President Francois Hollande's office and reported in foxnews.com dated 27 September 2015.

The office said that "France has hit Syria" based on information from French reconnaissance flights sent earlier this month. It may be recalled that President Hollande had announced a change in strategy earlier this month because of growing concern about the Syrian refugee crisis. Moreover, it was a question of national defense since France has been attacked and threatened by extremists claiming ties to IS.
Of course, President Francois Hollande has also stressed upon the importance of seeking a political solution for Syria.
Incidentally, while no specifics were provided about the location or timing of the airstrikes, it is understood from French military officials that they would target IS training and logistical sites. The French government has also indicated that even though it is part of the U.S.-led coalition, the decision to select targets rests on France.
(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

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