American Lawmakers Call for Stronger U.S. Actions Against Iran

Several American lawmakers criticized Iran's positions in the Middle East during an interview with Voice of America and called for stronger actions from the United States. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican member of the House of Representatives, referred to Iran as the 'greatest supporter of terrorism on earth' and called Ali Khamenei a 'religious Nazi,' stating that the U.S. should target Iran's oil infrastructure to prevent its financial support for terrorist groups. Graham also warned that if an American soldier is killed in an attack by Iranian proxy groups, the U.S. would retaliate against Iran. Senator Chris Coons, a Democratic member of the House, supported a proposed budget allocation package for humanitarian aid, which includes assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and countering China's influence. He referenced President Joe Biden's remarks about the importance of standing by allies in these historically significant times. Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican, criticized U.S. deterrent positions in the Middle East, stating that these have led to increased Iranian attacks. Rubio added that the lack of deterrent actions would escalate these attacks and warned that 'Iran will increasingly use more sophisticated and lethal weapons in these attacks.' He stated, 'I do not encourage war with Iran,' but emphasized the need to quickly establish a credible deterrent situation. Senator John Kennedy, another Republican, criticized the Biden administration's policies towards Iran, claiming they have led to increased Iranian financial support for terrorist groups. House Republicans are seeking to pass a defense aid package for Israel.