A Russian plan for Syria to surrender its chemical weapons to avoid a US military strike on the war-torn country is gaining support.

In Iran, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry said Tuesday that Tehran favours the initiative - which could see Syria's chemical weapons stockpile put under international control.

China, like Russia a firm opponent of any US military action in Syria, said on Tuesday the proposal would be beneficial to maintaining peace in the region.

During a news conference Monday, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said that Syria could avert a strike by handing over it's chemical weapons.

The details of the plan still need to be worked out and U.S. officials have said they would consider the proposal if it was serious and verifiable.

US President Barack Obama plans to address the nation later Tuesday to continue making a case for a military strike.