US Senator Van Hollen: Withdrawing US forces from Syria would be grave mistake

WASHNGTON, D.C. — Following statements of US Presidential Advisor Gabriel Sawma in which he confirmed the continued presence of US forces in North and East Syria, US Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) re-emphasized in a press statement the importance of keeping US forces in Syria.

He stated that President Trump would be making a grave mistake if he withdrew US forces from Syria.

Hollen emphasized the critical role of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in combating the Islamic State (ISIS) and preventing its resurgence.

The US had increased its troop presence in Syria from 900 to 2,000 soldiers following the overthrow of the former Syrian regime on 8 December.

A week ago, Trump announced that he had not yet made a decision regarding the continued presence of US forces in Syria.

Commenting on the potential withdrawal of the U.S.-led International Coalition, SDF General Commander Mazloum Abdi warned of significant risks.

“We hope that the Coalition will not withdraw at this time,” Abdi said. “However, we have not received any information from the US about a withdrawal plan.”