New York, N.Y. – Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) released the following statement on rapidly unfolding developments between Israel and Iran:
“I have been briefed on events in the Middle East and am closely tracking developments. I am praying for the safety of American citizens and servicemembers in the region and for enduring stability and security in the region.
“The United States’ commitment to Israel’s security and defense must be ironclad as they prepare for Iran’s response.
“The Iranian regime’s stated policy has long been to destroy Israel and Jewish communities around the world. I have long said that Israel has a right to defend itself and that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. Ensuring they never obtain one must remain a top national security priority. The preferred path to preventing a nuclear-armed Iran and for supporting security and stability in the region has always been a strong, unrelenting diplomatic effort backed by meaningful leverage, and every effort must be made to move toward the path of a diplomatic solution.
“As the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, the Iranian regime has sought to expand its influence in the Middle East, exporting terror and violence across the region. In fact, Iran was just censured at the International Atomic Energy Agency for systematically deceiving the world about its nuclear program.
“I will continue to stay in close touch with officials as events unfold.”
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