Texas Republicans oppose Trump’s actions in Syria

[Elderberry]

Houston Chronicle by  Jeremy Wallace Oct. 7, 2019

President Donald Trump touched off fierce public opposition from key Texas Republicans as he ordered troops pulled back in Syria to allow a Turkish military operation that is expected to target U.S.-backed Kurdish forces that have been fighting ISIS.

Even for infrequent critics of the administration such as U.S. Rep. Pete Olson, R-Sugar Land, the move provoked a stern warning of dire consequences.

“This action threatens American security and weakens credibility among our allies,” the former Navy fighter pilot who flew missions in the Middle East said. “Withdrawal of U.S. forces would reignite ISIS, embolden terrorists and gratify Iran — three mistakes the United States cannot afford to make.”

U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, the highest-ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, called on the Trump administration to reverse course.

Not everyone was ready to join the critique of Trump over Syria. U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, a Republican, was more reserved. On Twitter, Cornyn said the president’s advisers needed to make sure the White House has “thought this through and examined all possible consequences.”

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz has been reluctant to get the U.S. too deeply involved in the fighting in Syria, frequently opposing military intervention that could entangle the U.S. in another Middle East war. But on Monday he was unequivocal in his opposition to allowing Turkish forces to go after U.S. allies in Syria.

More: https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/politics/texas/article/Texas-Republicans-oppose-Trump-s-actions-in-14498821.php