Concerned with the deteriorating situation in war-torn Syria, the US started collecting intelligence on Islamic extremists that joined the rebel forces fighting to overthrow President Bashar Assad, for possible targeted drone strikes, the LA Times quoted US officials as saying on Friday.

The US officials believe al-Qaida operatives and fighters in Iraq moved to Syria to join the opposition rebels.

According to the LA Times, the intelligence assembled will provide the White House with both lethal and non-lethal options if it concludes the Syrian conflict is creating a haven for terrorists. It could also be used to help moderate opposition figures prevail over extremists.

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