McCain Commends Obama for Qaddafi’s Death, Urges Stronger Military Involvement

Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., expressed mixed feelings towards President Obama’s role in the death of Libyan leader Muammar el-Qaddafi. While he acknowledged the administration’s successes in eliminating figures such as Qaddafi and Osama bin Laden, McCain advocated for more assertive military intervention in Libya.

During an interview on CNN’s American Morning, McCain claimed that had the US employed its full air power, the Libyan conflict would have reached a swifter conclusion. He commended the leadership of the British, French, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar but criticized the US for “leading from behind.”

Despite some viewing the limited military support for Libyan rebels as a model for future interventions, McCain argued that each situation is unique. He cited Syria as an example, where he believes the US should offer more moral support to the opposition without necessarily employing a military strategy.

Additionally, McCain expressed concerns over troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan. He warned that reduced presence in Iraq could lead to increased problems and vulnerability to Iranian influence. McCain’s travels have led him to believe that the world perceives the US as retreating and weakening, a perception he finds troubling