Syrian Rebels Are Starting To Receive U.S. Missiles

Syrian Rebels Who Received First U.S. Missiles Of War See Shipment As ‘An Important First Step’ -- Washington Post

KHAN AL-SUBUL, Syria — Under the leadership of a young, battle-hardened rebel commander, the men entrusted with the first American missiles to be delivered to the Syrian war are engaged in an ambitious effort to forge a new, professional army.

Abdullah Awda, 28, says he and his recently formed Harakat Hazm — or Movement of Steadfastness — were chosen to receive the weapons because of their moderate views and, just as important, their discipline. At the group’s base, sprawled across rocky, forested wilderness in the northern province of Idlib, soldiers wear uniforms, get medical checkups and sleep in bunk beds under matching blankets.

The scene is a far cry from the increasingly pervasive view of a chaotic, ragtag rebel movement that has fallen under the sway of Islamist extremists. Such concerns have long deterred the Obama administration from arming the Syrian opposition.

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My Comment: While I am sure that the rebels are happy with these weapons systems .... they are also probably wondering if this is a one shot deal or a more longer and sustained U.S. involvement in the conflict.