WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released this statement calling for the de-escalation of tensions in Northeast Syria.
“I urge all parties in Deir Ez-Zour and Northeast Syria to remain committed to recent efforts, made with significant U.S. support, to de-escalate recent tensions and find a sustainable path forward. Renewed fighting will only serve the interests of ISIS, the Assad regime, and Iran, all of whom are intent on punishing and exploiting those who live in this part of Syria.
“All components of the SDF have been, and remain, valuable partners in ensuring the enduring defeat of ISIS, and we appreciate the work we have done and will continue to do together in countering ISIS. It is vital, however, that the SDF take concrete steps to address the real and deeply held grievances expressed by the region’s Arab population – by ceasing arrest campaigns and following through with the recently announced prisoner releases and political conference to be held in Deir Ez-Zour.”
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