Today's cartoon from The Independent shows President Obama as a starter starting a race with a starting pistol. However, instead of runners, there are missiles on the track and a sign pointing towards Syria. And instead of the usual interjection used to start a race ("On your marks, get set, go!"), Obama is saying "On your marks, get set, wait for it ..."
EXPLANATION
The cartoonist uses a sporting metaphor to illustrate Obama's decision to delay a mililtary response to the chemical weapons attacks in Syria. At one point a US missile attack seemed imminent, but Obama has now decided to seek approval from Congress before launching missile strikes against the Assad regime. However, Congress is not due to reconvene for another week, hence the wait.
ALSO SEE
• President Seeks to Rally Support for Syria Strike (New York Times)
• Strike against Syria? Obama backs it, but wants Congress to vote (CNN)
• US attack on Syria delayed after surprise U-turn from Obama (The Guardian)
