The United States' top military officer says ground forces could be deployed against Islamic State militants if the current US-led strategy fails.
During a Congressional hearing, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Martin Dempsey confirmed that under the current plan US military advisers would help the Iraqi army to plan attacks against IS.
He added that in certain instances, US advisers could accompany Iraqi troops.
"If we reach the point where I believe our advisers should accompany Iraqi troops on attacks against specific ISIL targets, I will recommend that to the president."
President Barack Obama has maintained that US forces will not have a combat mission in Iraq.
But General Dempsey said under certain circumstances he may go back to the president and make a recommendation that could include the use of ground forces.
