Obama: Syria Airstrikes on ISIS 'Not America's Fight Alone'

ByMEGHAN KENEALLY ABCNews logo
Tuesday, September 23, 2014

President Obama said this morning that airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria is "not America's fight alone," thanking other Arab nations for their help in Monday's military operation.

"America's proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with these nations on behalf of our common security," he said from the grounds of the White House.

He also touted the bipartisan support he has gathered for the airstrikes from both Republicans and Democrats.

"America is always stronger when we stand united," Obama said.

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Obama's statements come the morning after the U.S. launched airstrikes against ISIS targets inside Syria.

The U.S. was joined by a coalition of Arab nations including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, the U.S. military's Central Command said early today.

Obama said the U.S. "will do what is necessary to defend our country."

"These terrorists can't find safe haven anywhere," he said.

Up to 20 targets were hit, according to the Pentagon, many of which near the alleged ISIS stronghold of Raqqa.

Obama is headed to New York later today to address the United Nations.

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