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The Syrian American Council (SAC), America's largest and oldest grassroots Syrian American organization, reiterates its steadfast opposition to extremist groups, including ISIS and Jabhat al-Nusra, following the arrest of a Syrian American on charges of lying to the FBI regarding international terrorism. SAC remains committed to promoting democracy and fighting extremism in both Syria and America while partnering with the Department of Homeland Security. Furthermore, SAC urges members of all of its chapters to report anyone suspected of traveling to join terrorist organizations in Syria to the FBI.
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"We await the results of this investigation," said San Diego community member Anthony Khiralla. "This would be the first case of its kind involving a Syrian American. Syrian Americans as a whole pride themselves on pluralism and an open religious outlook."
Sohaib Alagha, SAC Vice President and a President of the SAC San Diego Chapter elaborated on the political views of Syrians and Syrian Americans: "Syrian Americans have always believed that a U.S.-style democracy was the ideal for their homeland. According to the Department of Homeland Security, very few Syrian Americans have been accused of ties to terrorist groups in Syria, amounting to less than 2% of those charged in the United States. We strongly oppose the evil visions of ISIS, al-Nusra, and other extremist groups. It is unacceptable for anyone to join these groups and we are ready to continue contributing to keeping America safe."