Washington D.C. – United States Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) responded to the recent drone attack by Iranian-backed groups in Jordan that resulted in the tragic loss of three U.S. servicemembers and left over two dozen others injured. In her statement, Senator Britt conveyed her heartfelt condolences for the fallen soldiers and their families while expressing deep concern over the circumstances surrounding the attack.
“My heart breaks for the three American heroes we’ve lost at the hands of Iran’s terror network. These courageous, devoted soldiers were some of the very best among us. Their valiant service and ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten. I know that the people of Alabama join me today in praying for their loved ones, as well as for the recovery of every servicemember who was injured in this heinous, cowardly attack. There are American families who woke up to unimaginable nightmares this morning. May God’s grace bring them comfort and healing in their time of grief.”
Senator Britt also highlighted her previous inquiries during a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on October 31, expressing concerns about escalating attacks on U.S. troops in the Middle East. She raised questions about the clarity of the United States’ red line with Iran, citing the Administration’s response as insufficient. She expressed disappointment in what she perceives as a pattern of appeasement, asserting that this approach has been interpreted by adversaries as weakness, resulting in increased hostile actions.
“This news is even more tragic knowing that it was avoidable. On October 31, during a public hearing of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I questioned Secretary Austin about the escalating attacks on American troops in the Middle East. I asked him twice if Iran understood where the United States’ red line is, and he twice pivoted away from a direct answer.”
Senator Britt continued by emphasizing the need for a robust response to achieve effective deterrence, citing over 160 attacks on U.S. personnel and installations in the Middle East since October 17. She criticized what she perceives as a failure to establish deterrence and called for a swift, decisive, and overwhelming response to protect American lives.
“Peace will only come through strength. We know that the Iranian regime is responsible for these deaths and for the bloody turmoil unfolding throughout the region. Remember that this is the same regime that is the largest state sponsor of terrorism on earth.”
In her statement, Senator Britt underscored the importance of a strong and swift response to prevent further loss of American lives and to establish a clear message of deterrence to malign actors worldwide.
