Belgian soldiers move closer to Syrian frontline

Thirty Belgian soldiers will this year be stationed closer to the frontline in Syria as part of a strategic move by the international coalition against terror group Islamic State (IS), announced defence minister Steven Vandeput.

The soldiers will not necessarily fight on the ground at the new location, but provide assistance from international security centres. They will "essentially be no more at risk" than in the area in Iraq where they are currently helping train the Iraqi army, says Vandeput.

Since July, Belgian F-16s have participated in the coalition's air offensive against IS in Syria. The fighter jets were previously limited to Iraq.

Minister Vandeput told the Radio 1 morning show that Belgium's role closer to the frontline remains to be seen, but that the intention so far is to provide assistance from protected centres, including improved coordination with the air support.