by Michael Yoakum
Impunity Watch Reporter, North America
WASHINGTON, D.C., United States – President Obama announced plans on Saturday to delay military action against Syria, opting to ask Congress to authorize strikes against Syrian chemical weapon depots. This announcement came days after the United States accused the Assad regime of using sarin gas to kill 1400 of its own civilians.
After laying out evidence that Bashar al-Assad’s forces were responsible for the August 21 attack in Damascus, President Obama explained that a strike against Syria’s chemical weapons depots, while important, is not time sensitive. President Obama then surprised his advisers on the President’s National Security Council by asking for Congressional approval to make limited strikes to Syrian military targets.
The President explained that he believes a military response is necessary to demonstrate the consequences of ignoring international treaties banning the use of chemical weapons. He noted that any military action in Syria would not involve “boots on the ground” or a prolonged occupation.
Reactions to President Obama’s decision were mixed. Secretary of State John Kerry praised the President’s willingness to consult the People’s Representatives, calling his decision “courageous.” While appearing on “Fox News Sunday” Kerry warned that the President would not wait for Congressional approval if there was evidence of further chemical weapon attacks.
President Obama stated that members of both parties in Congress have agreed to schedule a debate and vote as soon as Congress comes back into session September 9. Some members of Congress praise the President for seeking their authorization for military force.
Presidents are not required to seek Congressional approval for limited military interventions under the War Powers Act.
Political analysts speculate that shifting the decision to Congress allows the President to walk back statements he made to Assad last year. President Obama told Assad last year that the use of chemical weapons would be the “red line” by which the United States would be forced to intervene.
For more information, please see:
The Washington Post – Obama says U.S. will take military action against Syria, pending Congress’s approval – 31 August 2013
CBS News – Obama seeks Syria strike with Congress’ approval – 31 August 2013
The New York Times – Kerry Casts Obama’s Syria Decision as ‘Courageous’ – 1 September 2013
USA Today – Obama surprised staff with decision on Syria – 1 September 2013
CNN – ‘War-weary’ Obama says Syria chemical attack requires response – 30 August 2013
