Biden Declares War On Iran?
Tensions are higher than ever before.
President Biden’s Middle East policy has faced intense criticism following a drone attack that resulted in the death of three U.S. service members and injuries to 25 others at a base in northeast Jordan near the Syrian border. Senator Lindsey Graham called for immediate action against Iran, emphasizing a robust response.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the attack, and while the identities of the servicemembers were withheld, President Biden, briefed by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and others, attributed the assault to “radical Iran-backed militant groups” operating in Syria and Iraq.
Senator Graham expressed dissatisfaction with the administration’s approach, stating that the policy of deterrence against Iran had failed, citing over 100 attacks on U.S. forces in the region. Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg echoed these sentiments, urging a stronger response and emphasizing the need to climb the “escalation ladder.”
This criticism emerged despite President Biden’s recent assertion that he had conveyed a clear message to Iran, cautioning them against provocative actions. However, Senator Tom Cotton argued that Biden’s tolerance of attacks and appeasement had emboldened Iran, leaving U.S. troops vulnerable.
Representative Michael McCaul, chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, called for a “major reset” of the administration’s Middle East policy, citing over 150 attacks by Iran’s proxies on U.S. troops since October and a perceived erosion of deterrence.
In the aftermath of the drone attack, the debate intensifies, with some urging a forceful response to safeguard national security interests and restore deterrence, while others question the efficacy of the current Middle East policy under the Biden administration. The situation underscores the complexity and challenges inherent in managing geopolitical tensions in the region.
LOOK:
Do you agree with Lindsey Graham? pic.twitter.com/9BLGixmARs
— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) January 28, 2024
