Obama’s ISIS request ‘concerns’ House speaker

U.S. Senate Speaker of the House John Boehner said he had “concerns” over President Barack Obama’s request for a new authorization for the use of military force against ISIS fighters.

Boehner said the authorization was “an important step forward” but he was sure the plan would change as it moved through Congress.

“I’m not sure the strategy that has been outlined will accomplish the mission the president says he wants to accomplish,” he added, in statements carried by Reuters.

Boehner said the proposal puts too many limits on military commanders.

“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,” Boehner said.

“While I believe an AUMF against [ISIS] is important, I have concerns that the president’s request does not meet this standard,” he said.

Obama sent a request to Congress on Wednesday to formally ask for authorization to use military force against ISIS terrorists.

The U.S. president stressed that the resolution “does not call for the deployment of U.S. ground combat forces.”

Obama has defended his authority to lead an international coalition against ISIS since Aug. 8 when U.S. fighter jets began attacks in Iraq.

The formal request eased criticism of Obama’s failure to seek the backing of Congress, where some accused him of breaching his constitutional authority.