Rep. Buerkle Statement on Syria

Washington, DC - Representative Ann Marie Buerkle (NY-25) released the following statement in response to the ongoing instability in Syria, including the recent closing of the American Embassy there. 

“The ongoing violence in Syria is deeply disturbing.  Thousands of Syrians have died as citizens have risen up in protest to Assad’s regime – a regime which has consistently proven to be anti-democratic and oppressive. There is no easy solution for the continued violence, but it is clear that this situation has for some time now been a great cause for concern around the globe, from both a security and humanitarian perspective. 

“It has been almost a year since uprisings began in Syria, and we still cannot be certain of the Obama Administration’s position.  I find this very unsettling and, unfortunately, characteristic of this presidency.  Mr. Obama has pursued a vague foreign policy – we have seen it in action before, most notably regarding Libya – and it inspires no confidence in the American people, in our allies, or in the people around the globe suffering under oppressive regimes.

“Few would argue that blindly getting militarily involved in another conflict in the Middle East is the best way forward for our nation at this time.  It would be heartening, however, if President Obama would take a stronger position and provide more clarity on our goals.  There is a reason the world has become accustomed to looking to the United States for leadership.  In the absence of that leadership, we risk increasing violence around the globe.”