New Zealand PM John Key 'Jumps The Bandwagon' On ISIS War In Middle East

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key may be "jumping on the bandwagon" on the issue of sending troops to fight ISIS extremists in the Middle East. According to New Zealand First leader Winston Peters in a 3News report, Mr Key should "think very carefully" before deciding to get involved since the war against ISIS could drag on.

Peters mentioned the war in Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan as proof of how a war could last a long time. Reports said he wants the decision to send troops to the Middle East to come from Parliament. The UK and Canadian governments had debated the issue before deciding to get involved.

Peters believes the plan to send forces to gather intelligence was not viable. He said there were better ways of gathering intelligence. Peters thinks Mr Key has not provided a "credible explanation" because it sounds like a "disguise."

Mr Key has been dropping hints about what New Zealand troops will do in case they will be deployed in Iraq to fight ISIS. The prime minister has repeatedly said troops would not be involved in frontline combat, but they would more likely be helping coalition forces identify targets for airstrikes, reports said.

He said the violent behaviour of ISIS is "barbaric," and it's time people take steps to stop them. Mr Key told reporters he sees no reason for New Zealand troops to be on the ground since there was always a chance they might "come home in body bags."

Two Kiwi soldiers were killed in a frontline battle in Afghanistan. Mr Key is keen on not giving troops ground operations in Iraq. He said New Zealand troops could take on other important tasks like gathering intelligence and provide logistical support. They can also help identify ISIS targets in the field or using computer screens so fighter jets can attack and drop bombs.

Mr Key has admitted New Zealanders were uncomfortable with the idea of getting involved in Iraq, but he is still trying to make a convincing case. The prime minister has given himself a deadline for the final decision. He said he will decide before he leaves for the APEC meeting of world leaders in China on Nov. 10.