Obama directs US government to accept 10,000 Syrian refugees
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.With the White House under pressure to join European nations in addressing the global crisis, President Barack Obama will make a “significant” push to accept 10,000 refugees in the next fiscal year.
White House press secretary Josh Earnest made the announcement during Thursday’s press briefing.
“The president has directed his team to scale up that number next year. And he’s informed his team that he would like them to accept, at least make preparations to accept, at least 10,000 Syrian refugees in the next fiscal year.”
The New York Times reports that Mr Earnest described Germany’s talks to accept 800,000 and Venezuela’s vow to bring in 20,000 refugees as “demonstrating tremendous generosity and hospitality.” When asked if he would describe the US effort with the same vigor, Mr Earnest said: “The challenge that is facing Germany right now is different than the challenge we’re facing.”
Congress would need to approve any relocation effort, but members of the Republican and Democratic parties have announced the willingness to support such efforts.
Mr Earnest also said the administration has provided $4 billion in humanitarian aid.
The next fiscal year begins on 1 October.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments