Press releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) is requesting a classified hearing for members of Congress on this past weekend’s chemical attack near Damascus, Syria.  Specifically, Sen. Kennedy wants information on who is responsible and the likely impact for the region if U.S. forces leave Syria.  Sen. Kennedy’s letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is below.

“The images of children struggling to breathe after the chemical attack are unconscionable.  Whoever did this is a human butcher,” said Sen. Kennedy.  “We need answers to fully understand who is responsible for the attack.  We can’t let this go unanswered.  If we do, our friends won’t trust us and our enemies won’t respect us.”

April 10, 2018

 

 

The Honorable Mitch McConnell

Majority Leader

U.S. Senate

S-230 Capitol Building

Washington, D.C. 20510

 

Dear Leader McConnell,

I write today to respectfully request a classified briefing on the recent violence in Syria.  Media reports published over the weekend indicate at least 42 people are dead after a chemical attack near Damascus.  This attack and other similar chemical attacks in the region are of grave concern.  

In order to fully understand the ongoing situation, a classified briefing would help members understand who is responsible for the attack, disclose background on previous chemical weapon attacks in the region, and reveal the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria’s (ISIS) latest position in Syria.  Officials with knowledge of the situation should share their views on the impact for the region if American forces stay or leave Syria.

This situation is dire, and I request this briefing take place as soon as possible.  Thank you for your consideration of my request, and I look forward to working with you on this critical issue.    

       Sincerely,

 

      

       John Kennedy

       U.S. Senator

 

 

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