Politics & Government

U.S. Action in Syria: Do You Think It's Needed?

As President Barack Obama contemplates sending a "strong signal" to Syrian leaders, MacDill Air Force Base is being cast into the spotlight. We'd like to get your take on this issue that could have a big impact on Tampa Bay.

This story was written by Associate Regional Editor Sherri Lonon.

While it’s still too soon to tell what action, if any, the United States will take in response to Syria’s alleged use of chemical weapons, it is clear President Barack Obama thinks it’s important to send a “strong signal.”

Obama and other world leaders say they can’t stand silent following last week’s use of chemical weapon attacks that U.S. officials say are linked to President Bashar Assad's government, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

Find out what's happening in Carrollwood-Northdalewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

As world leaders await findings from a United Nations inspection team, the war drums have been beating for a military strike on the Middle Eastern country. If that happens, MacDill Air Force Base’s Central Command would play a critical role, The Tampa Tribune reports.

“They'll be busy,” The Tribune quoted William Fallon, a retired admiral who once commanded Centcom, as saying. “They have responsibilities for all military activities going on.”

Find out what's happening in Carrollwood-Northdalewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Centcom’s current leadership isn’t commenting on the situation in Syria at the moment, but it’s commander, Army Gen. Lloyd Austin III , has said in the past, action there is a tricky proposition, The Tribune reported. He said that particular country “represents the most challenging and complex situation” he’s ever witnessed in his near-40-year military career.

What action, if any, do you think America should take in Syria? Are your concerned about the role MacDill will play? Share your thoughts by commenting below!


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Carrollwood-Northdale