US 'ready' to provide necessary assistance to France

US President Barack Obama, before departing for the G20 Summit on Saturday, convened his National Security Council to discuss yesterday's horrific terrorist attacks in Paris.

His team briefed him on the latest intelligence surrounding the attacks, and --while noting that there was no specific or credible threat to the United States -- reviewed the US homeland security posture to ensure they are doing everything necessary to protect the American people.

He received a briefing on the US active cooperation with French side on intelligence sharing and military action against ISIL, and reaffirmed that his team will remain in close contact with their French counterparts to be ready to provide any necessary assistance to French authorities as part of the investigation.

The team reviewed the intelligence picture, noting that they had no information to contradict the initial French assessment of ISIL's responsibility.

On Nov 13 night US President Barack Obama spoke by phone with President Hollande of France to offer the condolences of the American people for the horrific terrorist attacks in Paris. Obama reiterated the United States' "steadfast, unwavering" support for the people of France, "our oldest ally and friend", and reaffirmed the offer of any necessary support to the French investigation. The two leaders pledged to work together, and with nations around the world, to defeat the scourge of terrorism.