The US National Security team was called in to order by President Barack Obama to continue accelerating the military campaign against the Islamic State (ISIS).
He also directed the team to do everything they could to make a ceasefire in Syria succeed despite significant question marks over whether the agreement will hold.
Obama made the comments after a meeting with his National Security team at the State Department as diplomats grapple over the details of a cessation of hostilities in Syria.
"None of us are under any illusions. We're all aware of the many potential pitfalls, and there are plenty of reasons for skepticism, but history would judge us harshly if we did not do our part in at least trying to end this terrible conflict with diplomacy," he said.
He also remarked that it is a tough situation with a lot of moving parts.
Obama added, "If implemented, and that's a significant if, the cessation could reduce the violence and get more food and aid to Syrians who are suffering and desperately need it. It could save lives.
"Potentially, it could also lead to negotiations on a political settlement to end the civil war so that everybody can focus their attention on destroying ISIL [or ISIS] and that's why the United States will do everything we can to maximize chance of success in this cessation of hostilities," stated further.
The president also received an update from his military advisers about the U.S.-led coalition's ongoing efforts to defeat the Islamic State, including against its growing foothold in Libya.
Obama remained tough that the ceasefire would not impact operations to destroy ISIS.
"We remain relentless in going after them," he said. "I am confident we will prevail."
While, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said a ceasefire agreed between Syria's warring parties was only valid inside Syria and was "not binding" on his country if its national security was threatened.
As per his televised remarks, Mr. Davutoglu said, "It must be known that the ceasefire is valid in Syria. When it is a question of Turkey's security, then the ceasefire is not binding for us."
Turkey has demanded that the Syrian Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD) and its People's Protection Units (YPG) militia should remain outside the scope of the truce.
Mr Davutoglu yesterday said if it was a case of Turkey's security being at stake, "we do not get permission from anyone, we do not ask anyone but we do what's required".
He warned the YPG and the PKK "not to support terror in Turkey" just because of the Syria ceasefire.
"When it's a question of the security measures Turkey will take, the only place to have a say is Ankara."
He also said that Saudi planes, due to take part in air strikes against ISIS, were expected to arrive at Turkey's Incirlik Air Base "today or tomorrow."
