McCain Calls For Airstrikes On Syria
By: Big 2 News Staff
Updated: March 6, 2012
So, some prominent voices are prompting the international community to do more to help the Syrian people against Bashar al-Assad's government troops.
Senator John McCain suggested it's time for a more forceful plan than economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation.
Saying, "The United States should lead an international effort to protect key population centers in Syria, especially in the north, through airstrikes on Assad's forces. The ultimate goal of airstrikes should be to establish and defend safe havens in Syria, especially in the north, in which opposition forces can organize and plan their political and military activities against Assad. "
McCain said several rebel groups have asked for the military help.
A senior Pentagon official told CNN that Defense Secretary Leon Panetta is "exploring options," but he's concerned intervention at this time could worsen problems in Syria.
The United Nations' humanitarian affairs chief is headed to Syria on Wednesday, after she was denied access last week.
The Syrian regime calls the rebels "armed terrorists."

