President Obama: Syria Air Strikes 'Necessary to Defend Our Country'

In a short speech to reporters on Tuesday, President Obama asserted that the airstrikes conducted on targets in Syria were the product of a broad coalition of nations against Islamic State terrorists.

Obama also reminded Americans that he had spoken with leaders of Congress who offered him “bi-partisan support” for the mission.

Obama made his remarks before departing for New York City for a series of meetings at the United Nations.