Rep. Schneider Statement on Use of Force Against Syrian Regime

Statement

U.S. Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) asked senior Administration officials about the goals and strategy behind potential military strikes against Syria during today's House Committee on Foreign Affairs hearing.

"The decision to use military strikes against Syria is an important one that requires thoughtful deliberation and review of the evidence, justification, goals and strategy," Schneider said. "We heard today from senior Administration officials who provided further evidence that the Assad regime is responsible for chemical weapons attacks against Syrians, as well as additional clarity on the military force the President is asking Congress to authorize. In the coming days, I will continue to review the goals and strategies presented by the Administration relative to the different resolutions being drafted. Stability throughout the region is threatened by the actions of the Assad regime, and the international community must hold the Assad regime accountable. Still, any action taken must be focused and ensure that we are not putting American boots on the ground."

Schneider has called on Secretary of State John Kerry to prevent the Russian transfer of advanced weapons to Assad, urged the Iraqi government to crack down on Iran's use of Iraqi airspace to transfer arms to Assad and questioned former U.S. Ambassador to Syria Robert Ford on the future of national unity and regional stability as the crisis continues in Syria.

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