President-elect Donald Trump urged the U.S. to refrain from intervening in the Syrian civil war as Islamist forces advance towards Damascus. He criticized former President Obama for failing to act against Assad’s regime after its use of chemical weapons in 2013, leading to greater chaos and involvement by Russia. With Islamist groups making significant territorial gains, there are increasing concerns about the humanitarian consequences and the stability of the region.
Jerusalem – President-elect Donald Trump has made his first public statement regarding the growing Islamist rebellion in Syria against President Bashar al-Assad, who remains confined in the capital, Damascus. With Islamist insurgents advancing towards Damascus, Trump took to Truth Social, urging that the situation be left to unfold without U.S. intervention: “Syria is a mess, but is not our friend, & THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT. LET IT PLAY OUT. DO NOT GET INVOLVED!”.
In his comments, Trump criticized former President Obama for failing to take military action against Assad after he crossed a significant threshold by deploying chemical weapons on civilians in 2013, which resulted in over 1,400 deaths. He attributed the escalation in the conflict to Obama’s failure to uphold his stated “red line,” suggesting that such inaction allowed Russia to deepen its involvement in the region.
Trump remarked, “This is where former President Obama refused to honor his commitment of protecting the RED LINE IN THE SAND, and all hell broke out, with Russia stepping in.” He noted the unprecedented success of opposition forces, indicating that they have strategically captured several cities and are poised to strike at the heart of Assad’s regime.
As the Islamic opposition continues to gain ground, the Israeli military remains vigilant, having recently reported an attack on a U.N. post in Syria’s Hader area, while also bolstering forces in the Golan Heights to ensure national security. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been actively discussing the unfolding situation with Turkish officials, highlighting Turkey’s support for the Islamist coalition opposed to Assad.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a designated terrorist entity by the United States and an affiliate of Al-Qaeda, has emerged as a significant player in the escalating conflict, controlling vast territories. In light of this chaos, the U.S. State Department emphasized the urgent need for civilian protection and a political resolution in accordance with U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254, which has been met with indifference by Assad’s administration. \n
Experts suggest that Trump’s reiteration of the U.S. non-involvement stance is consistent with his past rhetoric concerning Syria. Philip Smyth of the Atlantic Council anticipates further turmoil within the rebel factions, reflecting the instability of the Assad regime, which appears to be crumbling under pressure as cities rapidly fall to the opposition.
The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, has seen a myriad of factions, including radical Islamist groups, vying for power against Assad’s long-standing regime. The conflict has resulted in significant regional and global repercussions, prompting various nations to intervene or declare their positions. Former President Obama’s controversial decision not to act militarily after the Assad regime’s chemical attacks in 2013 has been often criticized as a pivotal moment that contributed to the ongoing crisis. The rise of groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham has created a complex dynamic for any potential resolution in the war. Trump’s recent statements reflect a strategy of non-engagement, despite ongoing discussions among U.S. officials concerning the humanitarian fallout and the need for diplomatic efforts to stabilize Syria.
In summary, President-elect Donald Trump’s commentary on the ongoing Syrian civil war emphasizes a clear stance against U.S. involvement, reflecting his attribution of blame towards former President Obama for failing to act decisively during critical moments of the conflict. As the power struggle intensifies around Damascus, with Islamist forces gaining ground, Trump’s call for non-intervention signifies a continuation of a realist approach to international conflicts, advocating for a situation in Syria to evolve without external interference.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
