U.S. senators push for sanctions on Turkey over attacks in Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Two U.S. senators introduced on Friday a bipartisan bill aimed at imposing sanctions on Turkey in response to its military actions against the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northeastern Syria.
Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen and Republican Senator Lindsey Graham unveiled the “Countering Turkish Aggression Act of 2024,” underscoring the need for immediate diplomatic and economic measures.
The senators expressed hope that the proposed sanctions would pressure Turkey into agreeing to a ceasefire and pave the way for establishing a demilitarized zone between Turkish forces and the SDF.
Their joint statement indicated that Washington must work diplomatically with Turkey to facilitate a permanent ceasefire and ensure stability in the region.
The sanctions are designed to prevent further Turkish offensives and attacks by its allied factions on the SDF, which the senators warn could lead to a resurgence of the Islamic State (ISIS).
Such developments, they cautioned, pose a direct threat to U.S. national security and global stability.
The proposed legislation comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with growing international concerns over the potential consequences of continued hostilities.
On Dec. 18, SDF Commander-in-Chief, Mazloum Abdi, expressed readiness to establish a demilitarized zone in the city of Kobani in northern Syria.