"Afghanistan was the central front of the war on terrorism, a war of necessity we could not muddle through."
"I wish this committee the best on that particular provision in the conference committee with my House colleagues."
"We should not take any options off the table and that engagement has an important role to play in our efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons."
"I must say that these are three remarkable individuals. We are very fortunate that they are prepared to serve our country."
"I think it shows President Obama's good judgment and really high standards in making these picks."
"I think we're very fortunate in him and his wonderful family that's with him, and that he's agreed to come back to Washington to serve our Nation."
"It is in the U.S. interest to engage Iran on Afghanistan security issues including narcotics."
"I support President Obama's view that after careful preparation, the United States should be willing to pursue direct diplomacy with Iran."
"The United States has not yet brought to bear all the elements of statecraft to deal effectively with this issue."
"I think we need to finish that this summer."
"I want to focus in on Afghanistan, for most of my questions, and say that, in nominating Admiral Stavridis and General McChrystal to the positions you're going to, it seems to me that the President ha..."