Louisiana lawmakers are reacting to the United States and Israel’s major attack on Iran on Saturday.
The U.S. and Israel launched a major attack on Iran on Saturday, and President Donald Trump called on the Iranian public to “seize control of your destiny” by rising up against the Islamic leadership that has ruled the nation since 1979.
Iran retaliated by firing missiles and drones toward Israel and U.S. military bases in the region.
Here’s what local leaders are saying:
Majority Leader Steve Scalise issued the following statement on the attack:
“For years, the Iranian Regime has chanted “Death to America,” targeted our troops, weaponized their terrorist proxies, and killed tens of thousands of innocent people, including Americans. Today, President Trump made it clear: their reign of terror is over.
The President has worked tirelessly to establish a lasting peace through diplomacy with Iran. Instead, Iran continued to pursue their sinister ambitions, promoting terrorism, developing missiles, attempting to rebuild their nuclear program, and posing an imminent threat to the security of the United States and our allies.
We can never allow the world’s number one state sponsor of terrorism to have a nuclear weapon. This decisive action is yet another move by President Trump to protect the United States and sends a message to the world: never doubt America’s resolve or capacity to defend its interests. May God bless America, the brave men and women of the U.S. military, and the freedom-loving people of Iran.”
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson issued the following statement on the attack:
“Today, Iran is facing the severe consequences of its evil actions. President Trump and the Administration have made every effort to pursue peaceful and diplomatic solutions in response to the Iranian regime’s sustained nuclear ambitions and development, terrorism, and the murder of Americans—and even their own people.
For decades, Iran has defiantly maintained its nuclear program while arming and funding Hamas, Hezbollah, and other internationally recognized terrorist organizations. Iran and its proxies have menaced America and American lives, undermined our core national interests, systematically destabilized the Middle East, and threatened the security of the entire West.
The Gang of 8 was briefed in detail earlier this week that military action may become necessary to protect American troops and American citizens in Iran. I received updates from Secretary Rubio thereafter, and I will remain in close contact with the President and the Department of War as this operation proceeds.
We pray for the safety of our brave servicemembers and our allies involved in Operation Epic Fury. May God bless them, and may God bless America.”
Congresswoman Julia Letlow issued the following statement:
“Iran is the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism and actively plots to kill Americans. President Trump’s decisive strikes send a message that America will not tolerate Iran’s threats to our national security. May God bless our troops and keep them safe as we confront radical Islamic terrorism and seek lasting peace.”
“I don’t believe this was impulsive,” said Republican Congresswoman Julia Letlow. “President Trump warned Iran repeatedly. He clearly pursued diplomacy. I trust the President’s judgment.”
Senator Bill Cassidy issued the following statement on the attack:
“The President’s decision to attack Iran presumably was based upon a clear and present danger to the United States, and a planned execution that does not put the United States in a forever war. We pray for the safety and success of our servicemen and servicewomen.”
Congressman Troy Carter issued the following statement:
“Iran’s regime is dangerous and destabilizing, but military action by the United States must always come with a clear plan, transparency, and constitutional oversight. The priority now must be protecting American lives and preventing a wider war.”
Congressman Cleo Fields calls the U.S. and Israel’s attack on Iran “problematic.”
“We are at war,” Fields said.
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