Report: US preparing military options in Syria

As the United States pushes for a diplomatic solution to the crisis in Syria, the Pentagon is also reviewing what military options are available, CNN reported.

The military is looking at what capabilities it would have in the region, which U.S. officials described as a routine planning exercise to give President Obama options if he wants them, according to CNN.

President Obama has said that the United States is still seeking a diplomatic solution, and White House press secretary Jay Carney said Tuesday that getting involved militarily or arming the Syrian opposition is not being considered at this time.

Several lawmakers, including Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), said Tuesday they think the United States should start considering whether to arm the rebels against the forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

The United States has hoped that a United Nations resolution would help lead to a political transition in Syria, but the resolution was vetoed over the weekend by China and Russia.

U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Susan Rice warned that the veto would embolden Assad’s forces to escalate their crackdown.

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