An overwhelming majority of Americans want President Barack Obama to secure congressional approval before using force in Syria, although they remain divided on the scope of military action, according to an NBC News survey released Friday.
Overall, 79 percent of those surveyed said they believe Obama should have Congress’ approval prior to taking action while 50 percent said the United States should not intervene over the Syrian regime’s reported use of chemical weapons. Support among the public for intervention increases when military action is limited to the U.S. Navy launching cruise missiles; 50 percent favor cruise missile strikes, while 44 percent oppose them, according to the poll.
The survey found that 58 percent of respondents agreed, however, with the statement that the use of chemical weapons by any country violates a “red line” and necessitates a significant U.S. response, including potential military action.