Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., expressed skepticism about U.S. military strikes in Syria during an interview on CNN’s The Source. Responding to the Biden administration’s 75 strikes against ISIS targets, Omar argued that U.S. military involvement is counterproductive to Syria’s progress in rebuilding and establishing democratic institutions.
Omar emphasized the importance of international support for Syria’s recovery, stating, “The Syrian people need to build trust within themselves. They’ve proven to be resilient and determined to carve out their own future.” She stressed that while external assistance could guide reconstruction efforts, the U.S. military should not dictate Syria’s future. According to Omar, American involvement is “a detriment to any progress that [Syrians] are seeking.”
The strikes, which the U.S. military claims targeted ISIS, were part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region. However, Omar criticized this approach, suggesting that the presence of foreign military forces undermines the long-term stability and self-reliance of the Syrian people. She called for a focus on diplomatic and infrastructural aid rather than military action.
Host Kaitlan Collins asked Omar whether she disapproves of the Biden administration’s strikes, stating, “It sounds like you don’t approve of the Biden administration’s strikes in Syria.” Omar did not provide a direct response but reiterated her belief that military involvement is unnecessary.
Omar’s comments reflect a broader debate over America’s role in the Middle East, particularly regarding its military footprint. The strikes in Syria have sparked questions about their effectiveness in countering terrorism and their impact on the region’s recovery. Omar’s stance aligns with calls for a reduced U.S. military presence abroad.
