Romney open to sending troops to Syria

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Mitt Romney says he's willing to send U.S. troops to Syria if needed to prevent the spread of chemical weapons.

The Republican presidential contender tells CBS News that the United States must take "whatever action is necessary" to ensure weapons of mass destruction don't fall into the wrong hands.

Romney says that may require ground troops or action by American allies such as Turkey or Saudi Arabia.

The former Massachusetts governor has limited foreign policy experience, but has so far outlined aggressive positions on potential threats.

He tells CBS that he would also support military action to prevent Iran from "becoming nuclear" or providing fissile material to Hezbollah. Romney says a nuclear Iran is unacceptable and could allow America's enemies to attack the United States.