Syria: US Committed a ‘Terrorist’ Act
The recent killing by US forces of what were claimed to be terrorist smugglers inside Syria’s border with Iraq has only served to heighten tensions between the two countries. In fact, according to an al Al Jazeera report, Syria has said it will ‘defend its territory’ if it happens again.
The US policy of unilateral strikes into Pakistan to fight Taliban and al-Qaeda in Pakistan seems to be reflected in this current action, and though there are likely long-term political ramifications from this policy in Pakistan, Syria’s response has ensured that the political backlash will be much swifter.
If this becomes more than a sovereignty issue–that is, if Syria continues to view this as a ‘terrorist’ act–then any talks with Syria and the United States in the future on any of Syria’s alleged terror-sponsoring will be further complicated. Further, US claims as to Syria’s recently improved border security would seem to have little validity.
Joshua Bark
