Western South Dakota News

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today expressed his condolences to the families of the American soldiers who were tragically killed in an attack by Iran-backed militias in the Middle East. He also highlighted the dangers of Iran's influence in the region and criticized the Biden administration's approach in deterring and degrading Iran and its proxies.

Speaking on the Senate floor, Thune acknowledged the loss of three American soldiers in an attack by an Iran-backed militia in northeast Jordan. He also mentioned the two Navy SEALs who were lost at sea off the coast of Somalia during a dangerous nighttime raid to intercept Iranian missile parts destined for the Houthis in Yemen.

Thune emphasized the need for effective deterrence and criticized the Biden administration's approach, stating, "The half measures so far pursued by the Biden administration have failed to stop us from reaching this tragic milestone." He argued that military capabilities alone are not sufficient for credible deterrence and that a clear willingness to use those capabilities is necessary.

Thune pointed out that the Biden administration's repeated assertion that they do not want to escalate with Iran is interpreted by the Iranian regime as permission to support terrorist proxies. He stressed the importance of sending a clear message to Iran that attacks against U.S. military targets will not be tolerated.

In response to the numerous attacks against U.S. forces, Thune called for keeping all options on the table and for President Biden to take decisive action and articulate his strategy to the American people. He acknowledged the expertise of military leaders in determining the best course of action but emphasized the need for a more compelling response than the limited airstrikes conducted so far.

Thune expressed concern over the Biden administration's handling of Iran, including attempts to reinstate the flawed Iran nuclear deal and unfreezing Iranian assets without sufficient guarantees. He criticized the decision to restart funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) despite evidence of staff members' ties to militant groups, including Hamas.

In conclusion, Thune urged President Biden to demonstrate resolve and leadership in addressing Iran's campaign of terror. He emphasized the importance of responding forcefully to Iran and defending national interests, particularly the safety of U.S. troops. Thune also called for a reconsideration of plans to withdraw U.S. troops from Iraq and Syria based on an arbitrary timeline, as it may be perceived as a retreat by Iran and its proxies.

Thune highlighted the critical nature of the current situation and expressed hope that President Biden would rise to the challenge.