Cicilline Statement on U.S. Military Action in Syria

WASHINGTON – U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI), who serves on the House
Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement today:

«Bashar al-Assad is a monster. He is directly responsible for the deaths of hundreds
of thousands of Syrians. His regime has turned millions more into refugees over the
course of the Syrian civil war.»

«Earlier this week, Assad cruelly deployed chemical weapons against civilians in his
own country, including innocent children. The civilized world cannot tolerate a
tyrant who does this to his own people. Assad cannot be allowed to continue in
power.»

«Last night, President Trump launched a cruise missile strike against the Syrian
military. The President must now must make clear to Congress the legal justification
for these strikes, as well as a comprehensive strategy for resolving the conflict in
Syria, promoting human rights, and defeating ISIS.»

«If the President intends to escalate our military involvement further, then
Congress has a responsibility to thoroughly debate and vote on an Authorization for
Use of Military Force. It is critical that the administration work with Congress in
the days and weeks ahead to meet the urgency of this challenge. And above all else,
it is essential that we express our gratitude to our brave men and women in uniform
and do all we can to ensure they return home safely.»