Political Quotes

“Iran's destabilizing activities in the Middle East are not a new phenomenon. However, of late, their malign influence has dramatically expanded and intensified in Yemen, in Iraq, in Lebanon, and, perhaps of greatest immediate concern, the establishment of a potentially permanent foothold in Syria. Such a presence enables Iran's increasing support for Hezbollah, including not only weapons transfers, but also assistance in building an indigenous rocket-producing capacity. I therefore appreciate the work of the House Armed Services Committee in including a provision authorizing the Secretaries of Defense and State to develop and implement a strategy with foreign partners to counter Iran's destabilizing activities. My first amendment would ensure the strategy includes specific countries in which Iran is operating, an assessment of their destabilizing activities, and the implications thereof. My second amendment would require a report on Iran's support for proxy forces in Syria and Lebanon and an assessment of the threat posed to Israel, other regional allies, and U.S. interests. It is important to know where Iran is operating, what exactly they are doing, who they are backing, and how this impacts the United States and our allies. Mr. Chair, I thank the chairman and ranking member for their support for my bipartisan amendments.”