German chancellor Angela Merkel speaks to a German Army soldier who wears heavy explosion protection gear during her visit to the Army Training Center of the German Armed Forces in Letzlingen, eastern Germany.
The German cabinet has approved plans to join the military campaign against Islamic State in Syria.
Germany is set to commit up to 1,200 soldiers to support the international coalition fighting the militant group under the plan which requires approval from the Bundestag.
The plans also involve reconnaissance aircraft, tanker planes and a warship to be deployed in support roles – but these will not actively engage in combat.
Bundeskanzler Angela Merkel’s governing coalition has a large majority and approval looks assured.
German cabinet approves plans to pit army against Islamic State
