SDC representative Bassam Ishaq discusses US foreign policy on Syria, Iran, and Israel in Suroyo TV interview

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a recent appearance on Suroyo TV’s Issues without Borders, Bassam Ishaq, a member of the Presidential Council of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) Mission in Washington, D.C., discussed US foreign policy developments, including implications of the US election results. Ishaq noted that while the chances for a Trump victory were anticipated, even candidate Kamala Harris had previously expressed doubt regarding the election’s outcome, citing economic challenges under the Biden Administration.

Regarding Iran, Ishaq explained that the Republican Party and President-elect Donald Trump are likely to increase sanctions, emphasizing a “Peace Is Strength” approach after Biden’s attempts at easing pressures proved ineffective. Concerning Israel, Ishaq highlighted bipartisan US support for the Netanyahu government, including military cooperation and readiness to counter Iran and its affiliates.

On Syria, Ishaq recalled Trump’s earlier reversal on troop withdrawal, asserting that US strategy now prioritizes a sustained presence to stabilize influence in the Middle East amid regional tensions with Iran. He hinted at potential developments in military support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to ensure their security, although he acknowledged an alternative scenario involving a US withdrawal from Syria and Iraq, contingent on regional developments in the coming years.

Addressing the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) community, Ishaq emphasized their significant presence in the US and their impact on elections. He noted, however, that while US politicians expressed concern for these communities, they clarified that there is no specific policy agenda dedicated to groups such as the Syriacs (Arameans–Assyrians–Chaldeans) or Kurds, other than a general interest in protecting vulnerable populations in the Middle East.