Latest news with #JoeWilson
Al Arabiya
4 days ago
- Politics
- Al Arabiya
Israel caucus co-chair slams Israeli strikes in Syria, calling them ‘suicidal'
A veteran US lawmaker and staunch supporter of Israel has criticized the repeated Israeli strikes on Syria, calling them 'suicidal' and counterproductive to regional stability. Republican Congressman Joe Wilson, co-chair of the Israel Caucus in the US House of Representatives, voiced rare and direct opposition to Israel's recent military actions for the third day in a row on Friday. 'Israel's strikes on Syria are suicidal. The real enemy is Tehran. Israel and Syria should work together. President Trump will de-escalate the situation,' Wilson said in a post on X. In a phone call with Al Arabiya English on Friday evening, Wilson revealed that he had a 'very lengthy' conversation with Israel's ambassador to Washington to express his concerns over this week's airstrikes on Syria's southern Sweida province, the Defense Ministry, and areas near the Presidential Palace in Damascus. While reaffirming his appreciation for Israel and support for its security, Wilson emphasized the broader goal of achieving stability in the Middle East. 'I also have an appreciation for the entire region... because I want stability in the Middle East to benefit all the countries involved, and that's probably most beneficial to Israel itself,' he said. A day earlier, Wilson called for an immediate halt to the deadly clashes between Druze and Bedouin fighters in Sweida. Israel conducted multiple airstrikes on Syrian government forces that entered Sweida, claiming it was doing so to protect the Druze minority. On Wednesday, Wilson described the Israeli strikes as 'unnecessary' and again labeled them 'suicidal for Israel.' When asked why he believed the Israeli strikes in Damascus and Sweida were misguided, Wilson pointed to statements by US President Donald Trump and his decision to lift sanctions on Syria. 'Give the new government of Syria a chance,' Wilson said, echoing Trump's position. He argued that a strong, inclusive Syrian government was critical to protecting all citizens, including rival factions like the Druze and Bedouins. 'And the way to do that is to have a very stable government in Damascus, which can benefit all, and an inclusive government. And that's what al-Sharaa has been so courageously attempting to do,' Wilson added. Wilson also praised Saudi Arabia and Turkey for their efforts to stabilize Syria and promote a regional balance. Warning on US support for Israel Wilson's vocal criticism comes amid growing scrutiny in Washington over unconditional US support for Israel, especially following the war in Gaza. Asked whether continued Israeli strikes could erode US support, Wilson responded: 'Indeed, it plays right into the hands of people who don't like Israel.' While reiterating that he would 'always support Israel,' he warned of a rising tide in both political parties calling for reduced foreign assistance. 'So, this is not a good time in history in America to test the loyalty of America to our allies. And it's not just Israel; it's really all of our allies,' Wilson said, referring to the progressive wing of the Democratic Party and the isolationist camp of the Republican Party. 'We have isolationists who oppose any conduct overseas. And so, it's not directed necessarily at Israel; they're against everything.' Iranian and Russian influence According to Wilson, Israel stands to benefit most from a stable Syria, which could help prevent the resurgence of ISIS and other extremist groups. Iran and its proxies also lost a major stronghold after the fall of the Assad regime, as did Lebanese Hezbollah and Hamas. Russia also lost several bases across Syria, especially along the Mediterranean coast. Wilson asserted that Syria's new leadership is 'making every effort' to curb Iranian influence, which he called 'destructive to regional stability.' As for Moscow, Wilson said, 'Russia still has bases in Syria that need to be addressed.'
Fox News
5 days ago
- Politics
- Fox News
Pro-Israel congressman accuses Tel Aviv of ‘mocking' Trump with ‘suicidal' strikes in Syria
Print Close By Morgan Phillips Published July 18, 2025 EXCLUSIVE: In a rare public rebuke of Israeli military action, Rep. Joe Wilson, R‑S.C., issued a harsh warning that recent airstrikes on Syria are "suicidal" for Tel Aviv. "I'm the co‑chair of the Israel caucus and a lifelong supporter of the State of Israel," Wilson told Fox News Digital in an emotional phone call, "I am heartsick." He said the strikes on Syria's military headquarters were "insulting and mocking to President [Donald] Trump," who just recently lifted sanctions on Syria after meeting with leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to give Damascus a "chance" at economic prosperity after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Wilson said he had a tense phone call with Ambassador Yechiel Leiter, urging him to share his warning back home that Israel must stop the strikes. RUBIO SAYS ISRAEL STRIKE ON SYRIAN MILITARY HEADQUARTERS 'LIKELY A MISUNDERSTANDING' Only weeks ago, there were back-channel talks between Israel and Syria on a possible normalization deal. Now, not only are those talks out the window, but the strikes will complicate work on a U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords-style deal to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, Wilson said. "It's so sad to me, it's so detrimental." He warned that fractures in Syria could ripple across the region — undermining emerging ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia, straining NATO relations with Turkey, fracturing Druze unity in Jordan and increasing instability among Kurdish populations across Syria, Iraq, Turkey and Iran. He added that such fragmentation would open the door for an ISIS resurgence, targeting Israel first. Wilson also pointed to broader geopolitical consequences, noting the strikes empower Iran and bolster Russia's presence in Syria. "Efforts should be made to expel [Vladimir Putin's forces], not to create destabilization," he said, asserting that Moscow uses its Syrian bases to project naval power across Africa and the Mediterranean. "What is being done is actually beneficial to Iran. The more destabilization, the greater opportunity Iran has to destabilize other countries, whether it be further destabilization of Iraq, and then also it plays into the hands of war criminal Putin." This week, Israel's national security minister Ben Gvir said Israel must "eliminate" al-Sharaa. On Thursday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the nation struck to defend Druze minority communities in Syria, fearing the Syrian leadership would soon strike Israelis. "I did not trust Assad the father, nor Assad the son, and I certainly do not trust a leader like Julani," he said, referring to al-Sharaa by his former name. ISRAEL-IRAN WAR DIVIDES DEMOCRATS, BUT TRUMP'S DIPLOMACY ALSO SPLITTING REPUBLICANS He claimed al-Sharaa "relies on jihadist groups that he operates against minorities in Syria, and tomorrow he will operate them against Israeli communities in the Golan Heights. "The moment we understood that the Syrian regime was behind the attacks and a partner in the massacre of the Druze — we acted against them with full force." The Druze community also has a sizable population in Israel. Wilson called the assertion "totally contrived and misunderstood." "It's so sad to me that they're taking the eye off the enemy. The enemy is Khamenei and the enemy is the head of the snake. It is not Damascus. The head of the snake is Tehran." "They're opening the door for Tehran to rebuild Hamas to rebuild Hezbollah, to replenish and they already have the Houthis. So, it's just crazy. And again, it's suicidal. If you can't figure out who your enemy is, then you're opening the door for massive loss of life within Israel itself." Syria's leader accused Israel of sowing discord by striking in defense of the Druze, who were involved in deadly sectarian clashes that threaten the nation's fragile unity. Washington is also intensifying pressure for de-escalation. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The Trump administration has formally urged Israel to halt its strikes and pursue direct talks with Damascus. Special U.S. envoy Tom Barrack reportedly made several calls to Prime Minister Netanyahu's adviser, Ron Dermer, pressing for restraint. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the strikes as a "troubling and horrifying situation," adding that the U.S. is "very concerned" and wants the fighting to stop. The Israeli defense ministry could not be reached for comment. Print Close URL
Shafaq News
5 days ago
- Business
- Shafaq News
Rep. Congressman warns al-Sudani: Freeze on oil funds looms
Shafaq News – Baghdad/Washington US Republican Congressman Joe Wilson called for preventing Iraq from accessing its oil revenues held at the Federal Reserve, as a means to pressure Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to stop attacks on foreign oil companies operating in the Kurdistan Region. Posting on X, Wilson wrote, 'Attacks by Iran-backed Iraqi militias against US forces and American oil companies in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq will not be tolerated. ' urging al-Sudani to take decisive action, or 'face serious consequences.' Attacks by Iran-backed Iraqi militias against US forces and American oil companies in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq will not be tolerated. Iraqi oil funds must no longer use the @federalreserve and Iraqi PM @mohamedshia must take decisive action or risk severe consequence. — Joe Wilson (@RepJoeWilson) July 17, 2025 Meanwhile, A recent wave of nine drone attacks has dealt a serious blow to the Kurdistan Region's oil sector, triggering shutdowns and placing vital infrastructure under growing strain. Following UN Security Council Resolution 1483 in May 2003, Iraq's oil and gas export revenues have been deposited in a special account at the US Federal Reserve known as the Development Fund for Iraq. Five percent of these revenues were allocated to compensate Kuwait for damages from the 1990 invasion — a process that concluded in 2022 after Iraq completed payments totaling approximately $52.4 billion.
Morocco World
7 days ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
US Congressman Recognizes Morocco as a Pillar of Stability, Reform
In a recent statement from Washington, US Congressman Joe Wilson expressed strong admiration for Morocco's role as a beacon of stability and reform in Africa. He credited King Mohammed VI's leadership for steering the country toward significant political and social progress that resonates beyond its borders. Wilson noted Morocco's bold steps in constitutional reform and its efforts to expand women's rights, portraying these initiatives as essential to the North African country's advancement. He also emphasized the unique atmosphere of religious tolerance Morocco fosters among Muslims, Christians, and Jews, an approach that sets the country apart in a complex regional landscape. The congressman pointed to the King's dedication to sustainable development, which, according to him, has propelled Morocco to a leadership position in Africa and across the Mediterranean. This commitment depicts a forward-thinking vision that aligns with global efforts to balance growth and environmental responsibility. Wilson's recognition of Morocco's stability carries additional weight in light of recent developments in the US Congress. He has officially introduced a bill calling for the designation of the Polisario Front as a foreign terrorist organization, citing its violent actions against Moroccan forces and its ties to Hezbollah, the Iranian proxy. The proposed legislation lays out a detailed case connecting the group to regional destabilization and security threats, concerns that directly contrast with Morocco's efforts to promote order and cooperation. Reflecting on nearly 250 years of diplomatic ties, Wilson reminded that Morocco was the first country to recognize the US, and has remained a steadfast ally ever since. He described Morocco as an ideal partner for the US, especially in economic cooperation and counterterrorism efforts, underscoring the strong trust and collaboration between the two nations. Wilson also welcomed the strengthening of the Moroccan-American relationship, noting that the partnership is grounded in shared values such as peace, security, and respect. Tags: Moroccopolitical stabilityUS Morocco tiesWilson
Morocco World
11-07-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
US Congress Publishes Full Bill Detailing Case to Designate Polisario as Terrorist Group
Rabat – The US Congress has officially published the full text introduced by Republican Congressman Joe Wilson, presenting a detailed case for designating the Polisario Front as a foreign terrorist organization. The bill covers multiple arguments to convince the US Congress to designate the Polisario Front as a terrorist group, highlighting its collusion with Iranian proxy Hezbollah as well as its involvement in violent attacks against Moroccan forces, as well as its role in destabilizing the Maghreb and Sahel regions. It is named the 'Polisario Front Terrorist Designation Act,' stressing the separatist group's documented history and operational ties with Iran. Documented history of operational ties with Iran 'The Polisario Front has a documented history of ideological and operational ties with Iran, a state sponsor of terrorism, dating back at least to 1980, when Polisario fighters publicly posted with portraits of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in a bid to attract revolutionary credibility and Iranian patronage,' reads the congressional bill. It cites reports highlighting Hezbollah's collusion with Polisario, a reality whose uncovering prompted the severance of ties between Iran and Morocco in 2018. Morocco announced that year its decision to freeze diplomatic relations after it received evidence about the collusion, accusing Tehran of providing Polisario military and logistical support. While both Iran and Algeria denied the collusion, Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, and UN Permanent Representative Omar Hilale emphasized that Morocco had received indications and satellite proof of training and equipment provision links between Tehran and the separatist group. Hilale said in 2022 that Iran had 'gone from training to equipping the Polisario with drones.' The bill highlights this collusion, suggesting that Iran's support for the separatist group has reportedly advanced from training to the provision of lethal hardware. Images disseminated via Polisario-controlled social media channels attest to the separatist group's access to Iranian-type munitions, it adds. The congressional bill also pointed to the Washington Post's recent report, shedding light on Iranian support for the Polisario Front. 'The Washington Post reported in April 2025 that Iran has trained Polisario Front fighters and provided them with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), deepening concerns about the group's growing capabilities and external sponsorship,' says the bill. In its report, the Washington Post quoted sources who confirmed that Hezbollah was training the separatist group to advance its interests in the Sahel. 'Over the years, Iran has fostered a wide array of proxy groups to advance its interests,' the report said, noting that a regional official and a third European official had indicated that Iran had been training fighters from the Algeria-based separatist group that are now detained by Syria's new security forces. International appeal Like Wilson, many international officials have joined the growing chorus of voices urging their countries to label the separatist group as a terrorist group, given its involvement in destabilizing the region's security, particularly the Sahel. In June, Spanish news outlet La Provincia published an opinion piece recalling the separatist group's attacks against workers from Fos Bucraa, fishermen from the Canary Islands, and civilians from the Basque Country. The author of the piece, Igacio Ortiz, emphasized that the call to designate Polisario as a terrorist group should not be a mere political theater: 'On the contrary, it should be a moral imperative.' In addition, former UK Secretary of State for Defense, Liam Fox, made the same appeal. 'Like Hamas and Hezbollah, the Polisario Front is an Iranian proxy organization,' Fox said. 'For the sake of our Moroccan allies, Western governments must move quickly to designate this group as a terrorist organisation.' Tags: Algeria and polisarioalgeria and the polisario front
