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U.S. Defense Secretary Hagel hails Obama's war power proposal to Congress

Xinhua, February 12, 2015 Adjust font size:

The outgoing U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel on Wednesday hailed a proposed resolution President Barack Obama is submitting to Congress to seek authority for use of military force against the extremist group known as Islamic State (IS).

"I welcome the president's proposed resolution and urge Congress to pass it," Hagel said in a statement issued by the Department of Defense.

Obama is expected to make a statement about the resolution later Wednesday.

Hagel said that he agreed with Obama that bipartisan support of Congress for the war power proposal against IS would provide an important signal of support to DOD personnel, of commitment to the country's partners, and of resolve to combat IS.

The president's draft language reflects important input from Congress, said Hagel, noting that it would give the Defense Department the support and flexibility needed in military operations against IS.

"The Department of Defense will continue to work with members of Congress to secure this resolution," he added, urging Congress to avoid any undue restraints on Obama's choices in the effort to degrade and ultimately defeat IS.

DOD personnel are working each day, with its 60 coalition partners, in the international coalition's campaign against IS, according to Hagel.

"We want Congress's full, bipartisan support in this fight, because the country is stronger when both parties and both branches of government stand and work together," he added. Endite