Daniel Akaka actually said...

"the United States has a key interest in Iran's relations with other countries."

"I believe that it is very important that U.S. personnel who work overseas have a strong understanding of the culture they are working in and the ability to speak that language."

"Civilians are essential to carrying out the mission in Afghanistan."

"Under President Obama's strategy for Afghanistan, as the United States works to destroy al-Qaeda, the Nation also is working to build the capacity of the Afghan government and bring new opportunities ..."