President Obama says U.S. aircraft are positioned to strike any ISIS forces that threaten Erbil in Northern Iraq.

In a statement from Martha's Vineyard, Obama said some of the Iraqis who were trapped by ISIS fighters on Mount Sinjar have been able to escape their situation. He noted that Kurdish forces in Erbil are receiving advice and assistance in their fight to defend the region and humanitarian operations continue.

Obama noted some progress in Iraq's political situation and urged leaders there to continue efforts to form an inclusive government. Obama said he and Vice President Joe Biden spoke with the man chosen to become Iraq's new prime minister.

However, current Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki remarked earlier that the Iraqi president's decision to name his replacement violated Iraq's constitution, and quote, "we will fix the mistake."  (Metro Networks, Inc.)

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