Oklahomans Protest Possible U.S. Military Action In Syria

President Obama says the United States is prepared for a strike on Syria after learning its government may have used chemical weapons on its own citizens.

The President made an afternoon address from the White House today, condemning Syria's use of chemical weapons.

Obama wants Congress to authorize the use of force, and that has Tulsa anti-war protesters reacting.

Tulsa protesters are fired up about the President's plans to intervene with Syria's civil war. They want America to stay out of it.

"It's just way, way out of hand," said Mark Manley of Tulsa Peace Fellowship.

More than 40 protesters stood at a busy Tulsa intersection on Saturday holding signs that said, "that is not our war" and "no war with Syria."

"I would hope that there would be a more diplomatic solution like and providing aid to who are suffering," protestor Ejaz Siddiqui said.

8/31/13 Related Story: Obama Seeking Lawmakers' Approval For Syria Strike

Obama says he hopes Congress will come to a resolution quickly on a possible Syrian strike.

"I ask you to take this vote for our national security," Obama said. "I am looking forward to the debate. And in doing so, I ask you, members of Congress, to consider that some things are more important than partisan differences or the politics of the moment."

Protestors believe the reason the President is asking for Congress to approve military action is because many Americans aren't supporting his plans.

"There has to be another solution instead of sending armies to them that will create more chaos," Siddiqui said.

The Tulsa protesters spoke out against any U.S military action against Syria.

They say our country can't afford another overseas war.

"Don't like my tax dollars killing people and that's what's happening," Manley said.

Bryan Cheek said, "I'm afraid they're probably just going to go ahead and give him carte blanche."

Anti-war protests weren't only happening in Tulsa.

People protesting a possible war with Syria held signs in Oklahoma City as well.

"I would like to see us to stand down to not be the policemen to the world," activist Larry Hochhaus said.

Obama says he will meet with Congress and expect a vote when lawmakers return from summer recess on Sept. 9.