Through much of his speech the President described the horrors of the chemical and gas attacks while trying to illustrate why the situation in Syria is a threat to American security. While he promised that absolutely no ground troops would be sent to Syria, people are still concerned that American lives would be put at risk.
Almost immediately after his speech, critics argued that the President failed to convince his opponents that the Syrian Civil War has anything to do with the United States. Supporters of the President are claiming he made a strong case for American intervention.
The President also stated that while he is ready and willing to order an air strike, he prefers a diplomatic solution. Such a solution may be possible through a plan brought by Russian President Putin. The plan includes Syria giving up all its Chemical weapons in exchange for a promise that the United States would not get involved in Syria. Does that mean the President will allow Syrian President Assad to continue to kill his people by more conventional mean?
Only time will tell.
What are your thoughts on this? Some questions to consider as you think through your response:
1. Did the President make a strong case for U.S. intervention?
2. Should he explore the Russian plan for peace before acting?
3. What is your opinion on the fact that the President has asked congress to vote on the issue before he orders an attack? (Something he does not have to do)