White House Vague on 'Broad Coalition' to Take on ISIS

The White House has so far been vague about who will be part of the “broad coalition" President Barack Obama announced Wednesday and what role members of the alliance will play in combating ISIS.

“We do anticipate our allies...will be active participants in supporting the international coalition to degrade and ultimately destroy [ISIL]. Any announcements they have to make about how they will be contributing to the effort will be for them to make,” White House press secretary Josh Earnest told reporters Thursday.

So far, Germany has said it has no plans to participate in airstrikes against the Islamic militants who have taken hold of parts of Iraq and Syria. Britain has not ruled anything out.

Secretary of State John Kerry is currently meeting with leaders from Middle East countries that would be key supporters in the effort to defeat the terror group.

“As it relates to what other countries would participate in military action in Syria, we will allow those other countries to discuss what level of commitment they are prepared to make,” Earnest said.

IN-DEPTH

• Battling ISIS: Britain Won't Rule Out Airstrikes

• Tricky Diplomacy Awaits U.S. in ISIS Fight, Analysts Say

• Obama Warns ISIS: 'If You Threaten America, You Will Find No Safe Haven'

-- Andrew Rafferty