U.S. Says May Take 'Additional Steps' to Defend Syria Allies

The White House said Monday said it is willing to take "additional steps" to defend U.S.-allied fighters in Syria, warning the regime of Bashar Assad not to impede their actions.

Spokesman Josh Earnest said Syria "should not interfere" with operations by U.S.-trained forces, warning that "additional steps" could be taken to defend them, raising the prospect of strikes against the regime.

Earnest said that Assad has not so far impeded the actions of U.S.-backed groups, which include a 54-strong unit inserted into the Division 30 rebel unit in Aleppo province in mid-July.

While the force has not come under attack from the regime it has been targeted by al-Qaida's Syrian affiliate the al-Nusra Front, prompting U.S. strikes. 

The Pentagon has denied claims that U.S.-trained members of Division 30 had been captured.