WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement on the terrorist attack in Manbij, Syria. 

Graham said:

“When it comes to Syria policy – go slow, be deliberate.

“It’s heartbreaking to hear about the loss of American soldiers and innocent civilians in a cowardly attack in Manbij, Syria.  God bless the brave Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of America by partnering with others in the region who reject radical ideologies. 

“I was in Manbij just a few months ago with Senator Shaheen meeting with Arabs, Kurds, Christians, and other groups who reject terrorism and do not want to be dominated by a foreign power. 

“If this does indeed turn out to be an ISIS attack, it should be a reminder of the lethality of the group – even though they have been tremendously degraded.

“My fear has always been that if we repeat the same mistakes in Syria that we did in Iraq, we are going to get the same outcome.

“I support President Trump’s efforts to rebalance our commitment where others do more and pay more.  But it is important that the United States has leverage and a presence to protect our homeland from terrorist attacks and stand with allies and partners who push back against common enemies.”

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