Condemn the Terrorist Attack on Kosova’s Iber Lepenc Critical Infrastructure

Condemning the Terrorist Attack on Kosova’s Iber Lepenc Critical Infrastructure We urgently appeal to the United States Congress to take decisive action against Serbia’s state-sponsored terrorism. The November 29, 2024, attack on Kosova’s Iber Lepenc hydro system is a direct assault on Kosova’s sovereignty and escalates destabilization in the Western Balkans. The Iber Lepenc hydro system provides drinking water, agricultural irrigation, and electricity to hundreds of thousands. This attack endangered public safety and risked a humanitarian and environmental crisis. It follows Serbia’s broader campaign to destabilize Kosova, including the Serbia-sponsored terrorist attack in Banjska, Kosova, 13 months ago, where Serb militants ambushed Kosova police. This latest act sabotaged critical infrastructure, severing safe drinking water for over 400,000 citizens. Evidence gathered by Kosova’s authorities implicates Serbia’s direct involvement. We are deeply concerned by Russia's support for Serbia in these efforts, as well as the destabilizing rhetoric emanating from this alliance. The parallels to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine are striking, demanding a proactive U.S. response. Failure to act emboldens bad actors, jeopardizing stability in the Western Balkans. We urge Congress and the Biden Administration to: Condemn Serbia’s attack on Iber Lepenc and recognize it as a direct assault on Kosova’s sovereignty; Impose targeted sanctions on Serbia and those involved in these terrorist attacks; Support Kosova’s efforts to hold perpetrators accountable; Increase support for Kosova’s security and infrastructure protection; Strengthen international partnerships to counter Serbia’s aggression; Kosova has made remarkable strides as a democratic and prosperous state since its 2008 independence, standing as a beacon of peace in a region scarred by war. The United States has been a steadfast ally, and it must continue leading in defending Kosova’s sovereignty. As U.S. citizens, many of us survivors of Serbia’s genocidal campaigns, we condemn this latest act of terrorism. Appeasement is no longer an option; accountability is essential to ensuring lasting peace and security in the Western Balkans. Sincerely, Albanian-American Community of Illinois 
Albanian-American Association of Uskana 
Care for Albania 
Albanian-American Islamic Center 
Valet e Liqenit 
Dardania Association 
Voice of Albanians in Chicago 
Çameria Association 
Ulqini Association – Chicago 
Don Gjon Buzuku Association Chicago-Ulqin