American intelligence recently reported the use of chemical weapons in Syria by President Bashar al-Assad. On Aug. 26, Secretary of State John Kerry called it “inexcusable” and “undeniable.” Shortly thereafter, President Barack Obama prompted a national conversation regarding possible American military intervention.
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle insisted that the president should seek congressional approval before taking military action. Rep. Kurt Schrader, D-Ore., said on Aug. 28: “Any commitment made by President Obama to use U.S. military force against the Syrian government first requires congressional authorization.”
Supporters of Obama’s unilateral military philosophy defended his ability to constitutionally involve the U.S. military with Syrian affairs by citing the War Powers Act. The War Powers Act allows the president, the commander-in-chief, to take limited military action without congressional approval if there is a threat to American security or a national interest in doing so.
A recent NBC poll shows that 80 percent of Americans want congressional approval on military action in Syria.
As reported by The Times of Israel, Iranian Chief of Staff General Hassan Firouzabadi warned that any U.S. intervention would trigger an immediate attack on the state of Israel.
In addition, the United Kingdom, once supportive of intervention, has since withdrawn support. According to U.K newspaper The Independent, British Parliament voted on military action and decided not to intervene, despite British prime minister David Cameron’s support of military action.
Since, Obama has declared that he will in fact seek congressional approval before striking in Syria.
A state-owned Syrian newspaper, alleged that citizens in Syria are angry the U.S. has decided not to act immediately.
Presently, the legislative branch on Capitol Hill is engaging in debate over proper courses of action. On Wednesday, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee passed a resolution in favor of military action, including U.S. boots on Syrian soil that will allow for a vote from the full senate on Monday, the Daily Beast reported.
At Harding, some students are frustrated with the way the situation is being handled.
“I believe it was irresponsible for Obama to give an ultimatum in regard to chemical weapons because now he must follow through for credibility’s sake,” said Chloe Maxwell, a junior political science major.
Others are skeptical of any good resulting from a U.S. attack. Patrick Meredith, a senior, said: “Unless we are going to go in there and get rid of Assad then we need to stay out.”
In the near future, Congress will continue to examine the situation and debate over the best course of action.
