President-elect Donald Trump declared on Saturday that the United States should avoid involvement in Syria’s ongoing conflicts, highlighting that “Syria is a mess” and “not our friend.” His comments on the Truth Social platform came amid escalating battles in Syria, where rebel forces continue to gain ground.
The Islamist opposition group Hayyaat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), linked to al-Qaida, has been spearheading a campaign to overthrow Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S., EU, and others, HTS initiated its offensive in late November, intensifying violence in the region.
On Friday, HTS fighters advanced near Homs, a major city in Western Syria, prompting civilian evacuations. Positioned about 100 miles from Damascus, Homs serves as a strategic point, indicating a possible push by rebels toward the Syrian capital. Trump suggested that the offensive reflects unprecedented coordination among opposition forces.
Trump Advocates U.S. Non-Involvement in Syria Amid Intensifying Rebel Offensive Near Homs
In his remarks, Trump criticized former President Obama for failing to act on his “red line” commitment during Syria’s earlier civil unrest. He attributed the subsequent turmoil, including Russia’s intervention, to this inaction. Trump also speculated that the current developments might lead to Assad and his allies being ousted, which he described as potentially beneficial.
Trump noted the strained involvement of Russia, a key Syrian ally, citing its preoccupation with the war in Ukraine and substantial troop losses. He argued that Russia’s diminished capacity could hinder its ability to maintain its traditional support for Assad’s regime.
Currently attending the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris alongside other world leaders, Trump’s comments underscored the complex interplay of international alliances and conflicts involving Syria, Iran, and Russia. His stance on U.S. non-involvement further distances his administration from Syria’s turbulent dynamics.
