Washington: Differences between Republican and Democrat leaders are increasing on the issue of Iran. Senate Majority Leader John Thune is supporting President Donald Trump’s policy, while House Democrats took the initiative to vote on a resolution limiting any military action. Speaking on Fox News, Thune said, ‘This President is committed to safer streets, more money in the pockets of the American people and new opportunities for Americans to move forward.’
On foreign policy, he said, ‘I believe the President is preparing us to protect America’s vital national security interests within that region and within the country. We cannot tolerate an Iran armed with nuclear weapons. President Trump had made this clear in his speech last night. I think the vast majority of the American public agrees on this. Thune also said that the United States has vital interests in the region and that the President is pursuing a policy of peace through power, ensuring that the United States has the right resources at the right time and place when needed. He said that hopefully there will be no need for this. If Iran comes to the negotiating table, it is possible that an agreement can be reached.
How did the Democrats corner?
Meanwhile, House Democratic leaders announced that they will hold a full House vote on the bipartisan Khanna-Massi Iran War Powers resolution when Congress reconvenes next week. In a joint statement, Democrat leaders said, ‘As soon as Congress reconvenes next week, we will force a vote on the bipartisan Khanna-Massi War Powers Resolution in the House of Representatives.’ He said, ‘This legislation will require the President to present his case to Congress for the use of military force against Iran.’
He also said, ‘We believe that any such action without consultation and permission of Congress would be unconstitutional. Next week every member will have the opportunity to register whether or not they support military action against Iran without congressional approval. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer demanded more clarity from the administration while US and Iranian officials were holding talks in Geneva.
Government should tell its target in Iran
In the Senate, Schumer said, ‘The administration should clearly tell the American public what its goal is in Iran. I have always said that strategy, clarity and transparency are necessary to confront Iran and stop its nuclear ambitions. But till now we are not getting any of these from the administration. The American people deserve answers. Meanwhile, Senators Jacky Rosen and Dave McCormick introduced the bipartisan Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act to increase pressure on Tehran following Internet blackouts and its crackdown on protests.
“The people of Iran have been forced to live under an oppressive regime that has used censorship and internet blackouts to undermine its people’s efforts to fight back,” Rosen said. ‘Iran’s future must be shaped by its people, who deserve protection of their rights and free access to information.’ McCormick said the legislation builds on America’s efforts to stand with the Iranian people against an economically, militarily, and morally bankrupt regime.
