The Republican chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee articulated on Wednesday that Russia needs to be removed from Syria, cautioning that Iran could re-enter the region if Moscow maintains its foothold there.
During a panel at the Hudson Institute, Sen. James Risch (R-Idaho) presented a stance that goes beyond the parameters outlined by the Trump administration regarding its engagement with the government of Ahmed Arshala, who had previously supported long-time dictator Bashar Assad in December, advocating for the expulsion of remaining Russian troops from Syria.
“The region cannot afford to let Moscow, with access to the Mediterranean, persist. Russia and Iran are colluding to enable Assad’s atrocities, posing a threat to the U.S., NATO, and other allies,” Risch stated in a speech at a conservative think tank.
“If Russia is permitted to remain in Syria, it’s only a matter of time before Iran re-emerges through a backdoor,” he added.
Last month, President Trump declared an end to sanctions against Syria. This decision comes after the regime dismantled Assad’s chemical weapons stockpile, collaborated with the United States on counter-terrorism efforts, and provided new authorities with a list of conditions for sanction relief aimed at locating and returning missing Americans.
However, lifting sanctions did not include expelling Russia. While Russia has scaled back its presence in Syria following Assad’s withdrawal, the Kremlin continues to work on maintaining its military bases there.
Risch emphasized the need for the U.S. to be vigilant regarding Syria’s new leadership under Arshala. The new Syrian president is a U.S.-designated terrorist with historical links to al-Qaeda and ISIS, although he has since disavowed any connection to the latter.
“I see a significant opportunity for Syria. Historically, it has the potential to become a great and respected nation again, but we must ensure that increased cooperation leads to better security for Americans,” Risch concluded.
Source: thehill.com