The Obama administration ruled out the prospect of immediate US airstrikes in Iraq, preferring a more comprehensive plan. Some 275 US troops are deploying to Iraq to protect US assets, and 100 more are on standby; US officials are considering sending a special forces contingent as well. A US defense official denied claims that the Islamic State of Iraq and the Sham seized Blackhawk helicopters in Iraq. Treasury Secretary Lew urged closer cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the US on combating terror group financing. The US said that Ahmed Abu Khattalah was captured by US commandos in Libya because he was planning attacks against US persons.
