WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement on troop drawdown in Afghanistan.

“Generally speaking I think President Trump has done a very good job handling the conflict in Afghanistan and opening new opportunities between the United States and Pakistan.  It is my hope that one day all American forces will be able to return home.

“A drawdown to 2,500 counter-terrorism forces may be sufficient but should be conditions-based, to protect America’s interests.  I look forward to hearing our commander’s views on this matter.

“It is imperative, for our own national security, that a counter-terrorism force remains in Afghanistan until conditions warrant their removal.  A counter-terrorism force in Afghanistan is an insurance policy against another 9/11.

“I am hopeful but very suspicious of any efforts by the Taliban to reject al-Qaeda in any meaningful way.  It is not in America’s interests for Afghanistan to sink back into civil war as that is a ripe opportunity for ISIS and al-Qaeda to reemerge in force.”

#####