ABC News White House Correspondent Jonathan Karl and Good Morning America host George Stephanopoulos discussed President Barack Obama's "real popularity problems" when it comes to his handling of foreign policy and national security, Tuesday morning.

On the eve of his major policy speech meant to address the growing threat of the Islamic State, Obama fetched dismal ratings from today's Washington Post/ABC News poll:  

Only 43 percent of Americans say he is a strong leader, the lowest reading since he entered the White House. Just over half the country says his presidency has been a failure, although partisanship colors that judgment.

His overall foreign policy ratings are his lowest yet in a Post-ABC News poll. A majority says the president is too cautious when it comes to international problems and specifically in dealing with Islamic State militants. His handling of Russian aggression in Ukraine receives somewhat better marks, but more than 4 in 10 still say he is too cautious.

Karl announced the results this morning and then focused on the stunning fact that 65% of Americans want strikes against Syria. "This is a dramatic change in public opinion," Karl said. Emphasizing the point that "91% said they see ISIS posing a vital threat to US interests."