Obama says mission in Iraq will "take some time"

These are the U.S. airstikes that President Barack Obama says are destroying the arms and equipment of the Islamic State insurgents.

Despite the progress in these individual strikes in northern Iraq, Obama warns against setting a timetable.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA SAYING:

"I don't think we're going to solve this problem in weeks, if that's what you mean. I think this is going to take some time."

The Islamic State has been moving toward Arbil, the Iraqi Kurdish capital, where the U.S. has a consulate -- a major concern for Obama.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA SAYING:

"Wherever and whenever U.S. personnel are threatened, it's my responsibility to make sure they're threatened."

Meanwhile, thousands of the Yazidi religious sect have fled but still face danger.

The Kurdish military has managed to rescue some, but many more remain vulnerable.

The U.S. has also dropped aid for this group and is calling f