In a recent social media post, Trump emphasized his stance by stating, ‘THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT.’ His comments were made during his visit to Paris, coinciding with the reopening of the Notre Dame cathedral. Trump underscored that Syrian President Bashar Assad does not merit U.S. support for remaining in power. Assad’s alliance with Russia and Iran has been a point of contention, particularly with the Biden administration. This administration views the Syrian rebels as having ties with terrorist groups, which has been further highlighted by their rapid advances towards Damascus. The U.S. government under Biden has communicated that it does not support the offensive, nor has it suggested that military intervention is on the table.
Currently, the U.S. maintains approximately 900 troops in the opposition-controlled northeastern region of Syria. Their primary mission involves collaboration with Syrian Kurdish forces to thwart any resurgence of the Islamic State. Nevertheless, both Syrian opposition activists and regional authorities are keenly observing the positions of both the outgoing Biden and incoming Trump administrations concerning the rebel advancement against Assad.
Additionally, the U.N.’s special envoy for Syria has called for immediate discussions in Geneva to facilitate an ‘orderly political transition’ in the country. In his message, Trump remarked on Russia’s preoccupation with Ukraine, implying their inability to curb the insurgents’ progress in Syria, a country they have long supported. He suggested that rebels might be capable of ousting Assad without U.S. intervention.
Trump has been vocal in criticizing the U.S.’s handling of the 13-year Syrian conflict. He described Syria as ‘a mess,’ affirming that the U.S. should remain uninvolved, encouraging an organic resolution without American participation. ‘DO NOT GET INVOLVED!’ he reiterated in his post.
Mouaz Moustafa, a prominent Syrian opposition activist in Washington, reacted emotionally to Trump’s declaration. He asserted that the statement aligns with the aspirations of Syrians opposing Assad. As insurgents advance, they are liberating political prisoners held by Assad’s regime. Moustafa assured that the opposition forces would diligently identify and safeguard any American detainees, including journalist Austin Tice, who has been missing for over ten years and is believed to be in Assad’s custody.
Trump’s firm stance on non-intervention in Syria signals a shift in U.S. foreign policy, emphasizing a hands-off approach in the conflict. As opposition forces make significant strides, the international community anticipates potential changes in Syria’s leadership dynamics.
Source: Apnews
