Graham’s ‘Save the Kurds Act’ Faces Political Hurdles in Washington

Summary:

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham has pledged to introduce legislation imposing sanctions on governments or groups targeting Kurdish forces, but political realities in Washington suggest the bill’s fate may ultimately depend on President Donald Trump’s position. Observers note that legislation lacking White House support faces slim chances of passage despite bipartisan rhetoric.

Graham Pushes Sanctions Bill Amid Fighting in Syria

Veteran U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham said he will introduce legislation aimed at imposing severe sanctions on any government or armed group engaged in hostilities against Kurdish forces, as violence escalates in parts of northern and eastern Syria.

The proposed measure, referred to by Graham as the “Save the Kurds Act,” would authorize broad punitive measures against actors targeting Kurdish groups, which have long been key partners of the United States in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS).

Graham said the bill is designed to deter further military pressure on Kurdish-held areas and to protect U.S. credibility in the region.

Renewed Conflict Raises Security Concerns

The announcement comes amid a renewed offensive by Syrian government forces and allied militias against territory previously controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The SDF functions as the de facto military authority in northeastern Syria and played a central role in dismantling ISIS’s territorial control in 2019 as part of the U.S.-led coalition.

Recent fighting has resulted in Kurdish forces withdrawing from several areas, including facilities holding ISIS detainees. Security disruptions have raised concerns in Washington over the risk of prisoner escapes and a potential resurgence of extremist activity.

Graham Warns Against Abandoning Kurdish Allies

Graham has repeatedly warned that abandoning Kurdish partners would damage U.S. national security interests and undermine Washington’s reputation among allies.

“The Kurds were the chief ally in destroying the ISIS caliphate,” Graham said in recent remarks, arguing that failing to act would send a negative signal to current and future U.S. partners.

He has also threatened to pursue harsher sanctions against Damascus if operations against Kurdish forces continue.

Trump’s Position Seen as Decisive

Despite Graham’s confidence that the bill could attract bipartisan support in the Senate, analysts note that any legislation opposed by President Donald Trump would face significant obstacles.

Trump retains strong influence over the Republican Party, and congressional leaders are unlikely to advance a sanctions bill that runs counter to White House policy priorities.

Political observers argue that while the Senate may use the proposal as leverage or a warning signal, no major foreign policy legislation is expected to pass Congress without Trump’s approval.

Broader Debate Over U.S. Syria Policy

The proposed bill underscores ongoing divisions in Washington over U.S. strategy in Syria, particularly as relations with Ankara and the new Syrian authorities evolve.

Supporters of the legislation argue sanctions remain a necessary tool to deter human rights abuses and protect vulnerable communities. Critics counter that punitive measures could complicate diplomatic efforts and further destabilize the region.

For now, the “Save the Kurds Act” appears to serve as both a political statement and a warning, with its ultimate fate tied closely to the White House’s stance on Syria and Kurdish forces.

Rudaw, Turkish press sources

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