Leon Panetta

Yes, I will continue to commit to funds for upgrading DODEA schools.

The consequences of a nuclear-armed Iran would be highly destabilizing for the Middle East.

I think there is. I think in the discussions I have had there, I think they really do want their country to succeed.

Historically, ending an insurgency requires some sort of political settlement.

We will and have to continue to maintain a strong relationship with Israel and that part of the world.

These incidents are tragic, unfortunate, and impact the entire unit.

I think the President has made clear that we have to make a long-term commitment to stability in that region not just now, but in the future.

I share Secretary Gates' view that the 'protection of the United States from the threat of ballistic missile attack is a critical national security priority.'

The military needs access to fossil fuels for energy needs. I prefer those sources to be domestic instead of overseas.

While we have reasonable controls over much of our budgetary information, it is unacceptable to me that DOD cannot produce a financial statement that passes all financial audit standards. That will change. I have directed that this…

I think the area that you have just defined is one area that we do have to pay attention to in terms of its implications on health and its implications on cost.

I believe that if Prime Minister Maliki and the Iraqi Government requests that we maintain a presence there, that ought to be seriously considered by the President.

The choices we make in terms of reductions in defense and security spending must be made with a clear understanding of the potential risks and consequences.

Mr. Panetta. DOD and DOS have briefed Congress on cooperation efforts with Russia and efforts to implement the European Phased Adaptive Approach (EPAA), including the deployment of the AN/TPY-2 radar, and will continue to do so.

It appears to me that we have reached a point in the campaign where a responsible drawdown in U.S. forces is possible.

Establishing the July 2011 timeline to begin a conditions-based drawdown of U.S. surge forces struck an appropriate and responsible balance.

If confirmed, Mr. Chairman, I pledge to you that I'll always keep our troops foremost in my mind.

I fully support the President's decision to establish Army Field Manual 2-22.3 as the single standard applicable to all interrogations by U.S. Government personnel.

We have to have a presence there in order to protect our own interests and to work with other countries in that area.

I have every confidence that the men and women of the U.S. Navy, with their character, discipline, and decency, will successfully implement this change in the law and continue to fulfill the U.S. Navy's mission with the utmost…

I agree-dwell time is critically important to the sustainment of the all-volunteer force.

the Pacific will remain a key priority for the United States, that we will maintain our force projection in this area, that we will maintain a presence in this area, that we will remain a Pacific power.

We support an Iraq that is sovereign and self-reliant; that has a just, representative, and accountable government...

I agree with the President that all options should remain on the table to address Iran's illicit activities.

The administration is working to ensure a successful transition to the Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) having the lead responsibility for security throughout Afghanistan by the end of 2014.