US State Department officials for targeted military strikes against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad

Dozens of US State Department officials have submitted an internal memo calling for targeted military strikes against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government.

They argue the current US policy leads to working against the Syrian opposition and helping Mr Assad to stay in power.

It was signed by 51 mid-to-high level officials who advise on Syria issues.

However, it is rare to have this number of diplomats voice opposition to a White House position.

A State Department spokesman acknowledged receipt of the memo but declined to comment on its contents.