What the people of Iraq have accomplished to date is historic and impressive, and we're confident that they'll put that same commitment and dedication to work in enacting the laws that will enforce this constitution.

The people of Syria deserve the opportunity to build a better future and to live in freedom.

Had the decision belonged to Senator Kerry, Saddam hussein would still be in power today in Iraq. In fact, Saddam Hussein would almost certainly still be in control of Kuwait.

You have a real constitution that protects freedom of religion, freedom of association, freedom of speech and freedom of conscience. These protections are among the most far-reaching of any in the region and probably around the world.

The United States stands firmly with courageous men and women struggling for their freedom across the Middle East, including in Syria.

In many ways we're seeing that veil of fear is lifting. I think that we're seeing something very real happening across the region in terms of progress toward opening up societies, opening up political systems and economic systems.