Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the U.S. Capitol, where they discussed Israel's security and the return of hostages held by Hamas. Thune expressed satisfaction with the bipartisan nature of the meeting, noting that both Republican and Democrat colleagues participated.

Thune criticized Democrat colleagues for previously boycotting Netanyahu's address to Congress and for blocking the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act, which aimed to counteract actions by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Israeli leaders. He emphasized that responding to the ICC is crucial not only for protecting Israel but also American servicemembers.

Thune praised President Trump for imposing sanctions in response to the ICC's targeting of Israeli leaders and withdrawing funding from certain United Nations agencies perceived as anti-Israel. He also commended Trump's decision to exit the United Nations Human Rights Council, citing its bias against Israel.

Furthermore, Thune supported Trump's stance against Iran, highlighting efforts to curb Iranian aggression through economic pressure. He concluded by affirming continued U.S. support for Israel and collaboration with President Trump on national defense matters.