With US President Barack Obama seeking approval for a military strike against Syria from the US Congress, global concerns that the United States would launch immediate military action against the Middle East country have been temporarily relieved.

On Saturday, Obama said he would seek a vote from lawmakers, who will return to session on Sept 9 after a summer break, before acting.

For Obama, the decision to pass the ball to Congress is a wise one. If Congress votes for military action, he will be better positioned to head off opposition at home; if Congress votes against it, he won't be blamed for not keeping his words.