Bonamici Applauds President Obama’s Request to Delay Vote - Diplomatic Efforts Should Continue

“This evening President Obama explained his case for a targeted military strike in Syria to deter and degrade the Assad regime from further use of chemical weapons, but also asked that a vote on military action be delayed while diplomatic efforts are pursued.

“Every effort should be made to avoid military action. Syria’s decision to join the Chemical Weapons Convention and Russia’s condemnation of chemical weapons are both positive steps forward.

“This is an issue best addressed by the international community. The United States must continue to work with countries around the globe to build support for a resolution that will require Syria to turn over chemical weapons and place them under the control of the UN.

“Although the vote on military action will not be brought forward at this time, we must not ignore the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria. Congress should provide additional humanitarian aid to the refugees of this horrific conflict while the President and others within the administration work to build support for a diplomatic, non-military resolution.”