President Barack Obama published his Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) letter to Congress to help "degrade and defeat" the Islamic State militant group, also referred to as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).

In the letter to Congress, Obama acknowledged the threat ISIL poses to U.S. national security, Iraq, Syria and the broader Middle East. Obama also recognized the deaths of U.S. citizens James Foley, Steven Sotloff, Abdul-Rahman Peter Kassig, and Kayla Mueller by ISIL militants.

"If left unchecked, ISIL will pose a threat beyond the Middle East, including to the United States homeland," wrote Obama.

According to the president, he directed a "comprehensive and sustained strategy" to degrade and defeat ISIL, which will include U.S. military forces conducting airstrikes in Iraq and Syria. Obama reiterated his opposition to "long-term, large-scale ground combat operations" as conducted for the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. He is proposing "flexibility" for ground combat operations for the purpose of rescue operations comprising of U.S. or coalition personnel or special military action operations against ISIL leadership.

Obama called for bipartisan support to enact legislation against ISIL, stating that the commitment "would show the world we are united in our resolve to counter the threat posed by ISIL"

In his AUMF letter, Obama noted the use of military force against ISIL should end in three years. The president will be tasked to report to Congress every six months on specific actions involving the authorization.

In a statement from the U.S. State Department, Secretary of State John Kerry said Obama's draft AUMF resolution is important and vital for the Obama administration and Congress to work together.

"The world needs to hear that the United States speaks with one voice in the fight against ISIL. I spent almost thirty years in the Senate. I care about the institution and I particularly respect the voice that Congress can and should have on foreign policy and national security. This is a moment where Congress can make it clear all over the world that no matter differences on certain issues, at home we're absolutely united and determined in defeating ISIL," said Kerry, noting "decisive action" against ISIL has reversed the militant group's momentum but the U.S. needs to move forward with the campaign.

House of Representatives Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, agreed on the need for a comprehensive military strategy but has disagreed with Obama's approach.

"ISIL is at war with our country and our allies. If we are going to defeat this enemy, we need a comprehensive military strategy and a robust authorization, not one that limits our options," said Boehner. "Any authorization for the use of military force must give our military commanders the flexibility and authorities they need to succeed and protect our people." 

"While I believe an AUMF against ISIL is important, I have concerns that the president's request does not meet this standard," Boehner said, adding hearings and oversight meetings will be conducted for lawmakers and the public to provide their input. He later said, "Ultimately, our objective is to show the world that the United States is resolute in our commitment to destroy ISIL."

During a U.S. Senate floor address, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., commented on the proposed AUMF. While he did not clearly voice opposition or concern about Obama's request, he said the Senate will review the AUMF "thoughtfully."

"Individual Senators and committees of jurisdiction will review it carefully, and they'll listen closely to the advice of military commanders as they consider the best strategy for defeating ISIL," said McConnell. "Because this issue demands such serious consideration, I want our members to have an early opportunity to discuss the President's request. That's why, later today, our Conference will meet for a discussion led by Senators [Bob] Corker and [John] McCain."

Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., said a military strategy is required to defeat ISIL, which may include an "anti-ISIL ground force" comprising of Arab armies and U.S. Special Forces.

Rubio added, "But we need to authorize the use of force. But more importantly, we need to authorize the use of force sufficient to defeat them, to destroy them... The goal here is to defeat ISIL. If your goal is to defeat them, your goal is to defeat them no matter how long it takes, or how many places you have to go after them." 

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