Sen. Rand Paul backs destruction of ISIS, 'enjoining' Iran, Syria in fight

[Natural Citizen]

Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) (AFP Photo / Eric Francis)

US Senator Rand Paul has come out in favor of “destroying” the Islamic State extremist group, even suggesting the idea of bringing Iran and Syria into the fight. While backing US military action, he said it should only play a supporting role.

The comments were first made last Friday, when the Kentucky Republican – and potential 2016 presidential candidate – told the Associated Press that he would ask Congress for the authority to attack and annihilate Islamic State militants, also known as ISIS or ISIL.

“If I were president, I would call a joint session of Congress,” he said via email. “I would lay out the reasoning of why ISIS is a threat to our national security and seek congressional authorization to destroy ISIS militarily.”

Elaborating on his position during a radio interview with Sean Hannity on Wednesday, Paul said he would quickly end Congress’ current recess in order to seek military authorization, which he believes would be easily granted. He added that in addition to forming a powerful American response, he would “enjoin”Turkey, Syria, and Iran in the fight against the hardline Sunni Muslim group.

Despite the hawkish position Paul has now staked out, he reiterated his belief that US troops should not be the ones carrying out the bulk of the fighting. Instead, regional players like Iran and Turkey should step up their campaign against the militants while the US provides other forms of support.

Paul’s recent comments come as President Barack Obama has moved to bolster the American military effort against Islamic State militants in Iraq. On Tuesday, Obama announced that 350 more troops would be deployed to Iraq to improve diplomatic security, and airstrikes continue to be conducted inside the country.

There has also been speculation that Obama is considering the use of force inside Syria, where militants occupy key strongholds.

Continued - Sen. Rand Paul backs destruction of ISIS, 'enjoining' Iran, Syria in fight

[Natural Citizen]

Placeholder - Aside from any discussion here @ RPF, please consider participating in discussion with regard to this paper at the source and in a meaningful way. Focus on Senator Paul will grow in the coming months.

[Brett85]

I agree with working with Assad and Iran. Neither Assad nor Iran ever posed any threat to our national security.

[jmdrake]

I agree with working with Assad and Iran. Neither Assad nor Iran ever posed any threat to our national security.

I think this is a good strategic move by Rand on multiple fronts. It's going to be hard to push for toppling Assad or for more sanctions on Iran if they are allies against ISIS. And if anyone tries to attack him on this, he'll be able to respond "But you don't support ISIS do you?" Sadly enough, some neocons openly support ISIS/Al Qaeda.