WINNIPEG - Retired general Rick Hillier says military intervention in Iraq and Syria is needed.

The former chief of defence staff says the humanitarian crisis won't end unless Islamic State leaders are dealt with first.

Canada's role in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant has become an election issue.

NDP leader Tom Mulcair has said he would end bombing campaigns and other military action, and put more resources into humanitarian and refugee efforts.

Hillier says that's wrong, and what's needed is continued air strikes and the ongoing presence of special forces in the region.

Hillier was in charge of Canada's military between 2005 and 2008.