Boise City Wire

BOISE, Idaho – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has expressed his support for the joint U.S.-UK strikes against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. In a statement, Senator Risch emphasized the need for a strong and strategic operation to deter the Houthis on a permanent basis.

Senator Risch acknowledged that the Biden Administration's decision to take action against the Houthis was the right move. However, he also highlighted the importance of restoring credible deterrence and not treating it as a one-off response. He stated, "This cannot be, nor appear to be, a retaliation instead of a strategic operation to deter the Houthis on a permanent basis."

The senator raised concerns about Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, which continue to undermine vital American interests in the Middle East. He criticized the administration's track record of narrow military responses, stating that they have eroded deterrence and created an incentive for further attacks against Americans. Senator Risch advocated for a strong policy of sanctions and other actions to end Iran's support for proxy attacks in the region.

To demonstrate seriousness in protecting American interests, Senator Risch called for direct targeting of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, particularly commanders who train, equip, and direct militia groups. He also suggested imposing real costs on the Houthis and eliminating their infrastructure that facilitates aggression. Additionally, he proposed re-designating the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization to emphasize the seriousness of their attacks.

Senator Risch criticized the administration's Iran policy, stating that it has made the region and Americans less safe. He expressed dissatisfaction with decisions to pursue proximity talks with the Iranian regime and unfreeze funds, which he deemed as a failure. He called for the adoption and implementation of an Iran policy aimed at containing, degrading, and ultimately eliminating Iran's ability to fund terrorism in the Middle East and around the world.

The senator's statement highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive and strategic approach to address the threat posed by the Houthis and Iran-backed militia groups in the region. It underscores the importance of deterring further aggression and protecting American interests in the Middle East.