The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) applauds the introduction of bipartisan legislation in Congress that impose substantial sanctions on Turkey for its invasion of northeast Syria and attack on the Kurds.
“The United States must sanction Turkey for its invasion of northeast Syria,” AHI President Nick Larigakis said. “The United States’ appeasement of Turkey’s demands is endless and must stop. Otherwise, Turkey will continue with its aggressive and provocative acts, which are egregious, without fear of repercussion.”
Larigakis added, “AHI congratulates the sponsors of each of the bills, Senators James Risch, Robert Menendez, Lindsey Graham, and Chris Van Hollen; and Representatives Eliot Engel, Michael McCaul, and Liz Cheney for acting in swift manner to address Turkey’s invasion of northeast Syria.”
AHI is monitoring this fluid situation. AHI will continue to keep its members updated about how best to contribute to efforts to hold Turkey accountable.
Action
Contact your legislators, identify yourself as a constituent, and ask to speak with the legislator’s legislative director or foreign affairs legislative assistant.
U.S. Senate
Request your U.S. senators to co-sponsor and pass legislation that places sanctions on Turkey.
There are two bills in the U.S. Senate that would sanction Turkey:
S.2644 introduced by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD)
Foreign Relations Committee Chairman James Risch (R-ID) and Ranking Member Robert Menendez (D-NJ) announce comprehensive legislation
U.S. House of Representatives
The House of Representatives is expected to take-up a sanctions bill this week.
There are two bills in the U.S. House of Representatives that would sanction Turkey:
H.R.4695 introduced by Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Eliot Engel (D-NY) and Ranking Member Michael McCaul (R-TX)
H.R.4692, introduced by U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney (R-WY)
Why Is This Legislation Important?
A strong message must be sent to Turkey that it cannot violate international law and that it cannot attack U.S.-allied partners without being held accountable for its actions.
Turkey’s actions in northeast Syria have implications for the broader region, including creating increased tensions, especially in the Eastern Mediterranean, and adding to the refugee crisis.
What Will the Legislation Do?
Broadly, various bills introduced would sanction:
Turkey's political leadership
Military transactions with Turkey
Turkey's domestic energy sector
Legislation would also:
Prohibit U.S. military support for Turkey
Trigger 2017 CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) sanctions
Restrict U.S. visas for Turkish leadership