In the immediate aftermath of Iran’s retaliatory strike on Iraqi military bases — where American service members were stationed — lawmakers shared their thoughts on how the United States should respond.
During an appearance on Fox News, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) called the attack an act of war and issued a stern warning for the Iranian government.
“This was an act of war, Sean, by any reasonable definition. The missiles were launched from Iran at targets inside of Iraq, housing U.S. military personnel. The president has all the authority he needs under Article Two to respond — and how he responds is yet to be determined.”
Watch his comments below:
In an attempt to comfort the families of U.S. service members, Graham said he is confident that President Donald Trump will “protect your family member.”
“To the family members, I have complete confidence in President Trump and his team to protect your family member and to protect our nation. This is the first president in the last 40 years who really understands the Iranians.”
Graham agreed with Fox News’ Sean Hannity’s statement that if the Iranian people want a new regime, the Iranian people will have to overthrow the government themselves.
He also emphasized his disdain for the leaders of Iran who he called “religious Nazis” that have a genuine desire to destroy Israel, and noted that Iran has sponsored acts across the Middle East for years.
But, Graham said while Trump can “go from zero to 60 pretty damn fast,” he will probably try to develop a strategy that avoids a larger military conflict and forces Iran’s leaders to change their behavior.
“Here’s what I think he’s going to be thinking about tonight: What do I need to do tomorrow or the next day to get them back into a deterrent mode so they’ll leave us alone? And how do I get them to change their missile program? To get a better deal on their nuclear program so they won’t have a pathway to a bomb. And what can I do to stop their being the largest state sponsor of terrorism? The price to be paid by the Iranians has to go up before they will change.”
Additionally, he stressed that Trump is not looking for “regime change,” but instead wants Iran to return to a peaceful posture that does not threaten the world with its nuclear ambitions or support of terrorist organizations.
Finally, Graham delivered a warning to the Iranians, “Let me say tonight if you’re watching TV in Iran. I just got off the phone with the president. Your fate is in your own hands, in terms of the regime’s economic viability. You continue this crap, you’re going to wake up one day out of the oil business.”
