WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement regarding the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

“Over the weekend we saw the collapse of Assad’s brutal dictatorship, capping over two decades of persecution and the suffering of the Syrian people.

“While this remains a dynamic situation, it’s important to recognize the opportunity this presents to help influence a post-Assad regime that benefits the people of Syria and helps to provide greater stability in the region.

“To that end, we should find ways to work with our regional partners to provide much needed humanitarian assistance while leveraging all our diplomatic resources to help the people of Syria.

“We should work to ensure that the new system of governance is one that equitably governs the people of Syria while preventing its territory from falling prey to Iran’s efforts to further destabilize the region.

“A sound government in Syria is good for the people of Syria and the security interests of the United States, partners, allies, and the world.”

###