Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop has declared that the country is willing to play the "proportionate, prudent role" in fighting terrorism. The government is preparing to make the decision to send Australian troops to Iraq.

According to reports, Bishop said several countries have been surprised at the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria militants' ability to seize territory in the Middle East. United States President Barack Obama revealed intelligence agencies may have underestimated ISIS' capabilities and overestimated the Iraqi army's strength in fighting the extremists.

The foreign affairs minister mentioned the need of the Iraqi military to build the capacity and capability against the extremist group. The Australian government is prepared to offer 200 members of special forces to assist Iraqi and Kurdish military personnel as announced previously by Prime Minister Tony Abbott. Up to eight Australian warplanes are on standby in the United Arab Emirates base while waiting for the government's final decision.

Bishop has confirmed that the national security committee of the cabinet will be meeting within the week to consider Australia's options. The Guardian reported that contrary to what Bishop said, the issue will not be considered in the upcoming cabinet meeting on Sept. 30.

When the media asked Bishop about Australia's delay in carrying out the mission, she said the government was acting with caution and with the invitation of the new Iraqi government. She explained that there must be appropriate legal framework to protect Australian personnel.

Bishop also weighed in on the recent asylum seeker deal signed between Australia and Cambodia. She defended the decision and said asylum seekers will have the option to resettle in Cambodia if they did not like Nauru. She admitted refugees only have the two countries as their options. Bishop reiterated that Australia will not receive refugees who were brought by the people-smuggling trade.

The government has received flak for providing $49 million in development assistance which critics view as a "$40 million bribe." Bishop said the country is "helping" Cambodia to move forward, improve the economy and leave its past behind.

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