Reactions to Trump's Decision on Withdrawal of US Forces from Syria

Reports regarding Donald Trump's decision, the President of the United States, to withdraw American forces from Syria have elicited various reactions. On Wednesday, Donald Trump announced victory over ISIS, stating that he sees no reason to remain in Syria. Mr. Trump tweeted: "After a historic victory against ISIS, it is time to bring our young people home." In this context, Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, issued a statement indicating that Israel is examining the implications of the rapid US withdrawal from Syria on its security. Netanyahu mentioned that he has spoken with Donald Trump and the US Secretary of State about the withdrawal in the past two days, stating that they clearly indicate there are other ways to exert influence in the region. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the British government stated that such a development does not signify the end of the international coalition's battle against ISIS, and the British government is committed to ensuring the complete defeat of ISIS. The spokesperson emphasized that the UK continues its discussions with the US and other coalition members regarding operational status. Initial reports indicate that Russia welcomed Trump's action regarding Syria. Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated on a television program that this US action could pave the way for a genuine political solution. However, Trump's decision to withdraw US forces from Syria has drawn criticism from Republican lawmakers. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham criticized the decision, stating that the withdrawal of US forces from Syria is perceived as a weakness by Iran and other bad actors in countering Iranian influence. Lindsey Graham asserted that when the US withdraws from Syria, it simply hands the country over to Russia and Iran, especially Iran. Republican Senator Marco Rubio also described the withdrawal of US forces from Syria as a terrible mistake. The United States currently has about 2,000 troops in Syria, most of whom are special operations forces working with Kurdish allies and Arab militias known as the Syrian Democratic Forces. Mike Turner, a Republican representative in the House and a member of the Armed Services Committee, stated that the timing of the withdrawal of US forces from Syria is still unclear. Meanwhile, Reuters previously reported, citing some sources, that this would occur in the next 60 to 100 days. Iran and Russia are the main supporters of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria and have turned the tide in favor of Syrian forces in the war against Damascus's opponents since 2015. The presence of Iranian forces in Syria has always been criticized by the US government, which views it as interference in the internal affairs of this country. However, Tehran claims it entered this war at the request of the Syrian government and provides advisory assistance.