Dear John,

In the wake of the Syrian civil war, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), important allies in the United States' fight against ISIS, established the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria. Under this government, minorities often overlooked in the Middle East (including Christians, Yazidis, and Kurds) all found protection and political representation and lived together in peace. Even Christian converts from Muslim backgrounds could live freely, something almost unheard of in the region.

All of this is at risk as Turkey invades Northeast Syria, following President Trump's decision to withdraw troops from the Turkish-Syrian border. Turkish troops are reportedly targeting civilian areas in Syria, including Christian populations - and appear to have fired upon U.S. troops. The organization Genocide Watch has concluded that "Turkey is planning genocide and crimes against humanity in Northeastern Syria." In addition, the destabilization resulting from Turkey's actions will pave the way for Iran to move in, posing a grave threat to Israel and other U.S. allies in the Gulf region.

We must respond with support for Northeast Syria, along with the religious freedom and Christian communities it is protecting. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) are planning to introduce the Graham-Van Hollen Turkey Sanctions Bill, which will prohibit U.S. military assistance to Turkey, put visa restrictions on Turkish officials and sanction their U.S. assets, and sanction others supporting the Turkish military and energy sectors.

This is a needed step that has strong bipartisan support and will let Turkey - the same country that imprisoned Pastor Andrew Brunson - know that its repression and disregard for religious freedom in Northeast Syria will not be without consequences. This bill is also a good vehicle for President Trump to respond to Turkish aggression.

Please join us in signing our petition asking President Trump to utilize Graham-Van Hollen Turkey Sanctions Bill to penalize Turkey and stand in defense of the Kurds, Christians, Yazidis, and others seeking religious freedom in Northeast Syria.

Standing (Eph. 6:13),

Tony Perkins
President

SIGN THE PETITION

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