House Speaker John Boehner says the United States should provide more equipment and other aid to the Iraqi government in its battle against al-Qaida militants. But he also says U.S. troops should not be sent back there now.

The Ohio Republican told reporters Thursday that President Barack Obama must get more involved in helping Iraq fight terrorist groups. He said progress the U.S. made there before withdrawing its troops is being threatened, and has been reversed in Fallujah, where al-Qaida-linked moderates have seized control.

Boehner did not specify what aid the U.S. should provide, mentioning only equipment and other services.

Asked directly whether he thought U.S. troops should be sent back to Iraq, he said he does not think that should happen “at this point in time.”

(AP)