ALBAWABA - U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said the Syrian conflict is "not our battle." His statements came amid rising tensions and Syrian rebel gains.
Trump wrote on Truth Social, "Syria is in turmoil and not a U.S. friend. We should stay out. This isn't our fight—let it finish. Stay away!"
Trump also blamed Russia's obsession with Ukraine for its inability to stop the Syrian opposition's growth. He said, "It could be the best outcome for them, as Russia hasn’t gained much from its presence there."
Trump's comments echo his longstanding opposition to U.S. soldiers in Syria. About 900 American forces support the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in northeastern Syria. Since 2018, when Trump recommended removing soldiers due to ISIS's near defeat, this deployment has been controversial. Advisors warned that Iran and Russia may gain influence.
Trump said, "The world is sliding into madness." He said that during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, his first international trip since winning.
Trump's "America First" strategy suggests a shift in U.S. goals that may reshape Middle Eastern conflicts. Al Jazeera monitors how this position may affect regional stability and global partnerships.
