President Obama delivers statement on military strike against ISIS ISIL in Syria
President Obama addressed the media on the White House lawn this morning. “Last night on my orders,” President Obama said. “American armed forces began strikes against ISIL targets in Syria.”
President Obama thanked the pilots and all of those involved in the operation. He referred to the strategy he outlined earlier this month where he said he would target ISIS ISIL in Iraq and Syria. He said then America would operate as a part of a broad coalition. President Obama said that was done.
“We were joined in this actions by our friends and partners,” President Obama said. “Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Jordan, Bahrain, and Qatar. America is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with these nations on behalf of our common security.”
The President went on to say that the strength of the coalition makes it clear to the world that this is not America’s fight alone. He said that we will move on with the plan supported by bipartisan majorities in Congress. These include ramping up the training of the opposition. He said over forty nations have offered to help in the comprehensive effort.
President Obama said that last night others were targeted as well. He said strikes were made against seasoned Al Qaeda operatives in Syria known as the Khorasan group who were plotting against the US and its allies. The President said safe havens for terrorists will not be tolerated.
The President said he has spoken to Congress and is pleased that there was bipartisan support. “America is always stronger,” President Obama said. “When we stand united. And that unity sends a powerful message to the world that we will do what is necessary to defend our country.”
The President said over the next several days he will be meeting with Prime Minister Abadi of Iraq and with friends and allies at the United Nations to continue building support for the coalition that is confronting ISIS ISIL. He said the effort to take out ISIS will take time and will have challenges. He said all will be done to take out ISIS.