Letter to Barack Obama, President of the United States - Support for Kurdish Regional Government's Request for Equipment and Intelligence
Letter
August 8, 2014
President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20006
Dear Mr. President:
I am writing to express my support for the Kurdish Regional Government's (KRG) request for U.S. military equipment and intelligence assistance in its efforts against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
Like you, I am extremely disturbed by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria's recent incursions in Iraq and, in particular, by the speed with which it has been able to wrest control of areas away from national security forces. Unfortunately, these militants are well-trained, experienced and extremely well-armed with equipment that makes them a significant threat to Iraqi and regional stability. The recent attacks in the north and west, and ISIS' attempts to capture dams and other vital infrastructure, must be taken as a signal that the U.S. needs to provide prompt and meaningful assistance to prevent further ISIS advances.
Since June, the KRG security forces, or Peshmerga, have been stepping in and defending Christians, Yahzidis and other Iraqi populations against ISIS attacks. Unfortunately, their resources are quickly dwindling, and the loss of the force multiplier provided by the Peshmerga can be potentially disastrous in staving off these militants.
I am aware that the KRG recently has requested lethal military equipment, as well as intelligence, to help them in their offensive operations against ISIS. I believe that providing such assistance is appropriate: the Peshmerga have fought alongside U.S. forces for many years and the KRG has demonstrated competence and willingness to cooperate with the U.S.
I support your decision to provide emergency assistance to the Iraqi and Kurdish forces in light of the ISIS approach on Irbil. I urge you to ensure that the Peshmerga receive the prompt and robust military equipment assistance they need to take on ISIS.
Sincerely,
Stephen F. Lynch
Member of Congress
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