US officials: Obama administration considers military training of Syrian rebels

WASHINGTON – U.S. officials say the Obama administration is considering deploying U.S. military trainers to help increase the capabilities of the Syrian rebels.

Officials say no decision has been made, but the plan would answer some lawmakers’ demands to increase aid to the Syrian opposition. Any training would take place outside of Syria, possibly in Jordan.

The CIA has been training select groups of rebels in Jordan, including on the use of communications equipment and some weapons provided by Gulf states. The new discussions centre on whether the U.S. military should take over the mission so hundreds or thousands can be trained, rather than just dozens. Officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the plan publicly.