Then 500 troops were sent in to take control over the area.

The army did not say how many troops had been sent into action.

A1 At least 34 other countries plan to send 15,000 to 20,000 troops.

By May 21 there was no need to send further troops.

In recent days, both countries have sent additional troops here.

Some countries simply do not have the numbers to send 1,000 troops, and yet they are doing their best to help free Iraq.

It has also added to the pressure to send American troops to sort out the situation.

"So he is less likely to send troops to a war."

For now, no American troops are being sent, the spokesman said.

Officials said no final decision had been made on sending troops.