Boise City Wire

BOISE, Idaho – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) released a statement criticizing the Biden-Harris Administration's Middle East policy and addressing concerns about a potential Iranian attack against Israel.

"The Biden-Harris Administration has consistently pursued policies that embolden America’s adversaries and undercut our allies – no one should be surprised that we’re bracing ourselves for an Iranian attack against Israel," Risch stated.

Risch referenced the attacks of October 7, 2023, asserting that the administration restricted Israel's right to self-defense from the outset. "From suspending arms sales, to slowing sales already in the pipeline, to feckless calls for a ceasefire – the administration has undercut the Israelis during their greatest time of need."

He further criticized the administration for holding back sales of critical military equipment. "The administration continues to hold sales of 2,000-pound bombs and other tools the Israelis require. These weapons are absolutely necessary in the event of a wider war with Hezbollah. Instead of reinforcing Israeli deterrence, the administration is sending a message that ‘the U.S. doesn’t have your back.’"

Risch accused President Biden and Vice President Harris of depriving Israel of essential military tools and pandering to progressive left policies. He argued these actions signal to allies and adversaries alike that America may not support its partners in times of need.

"Across the Middle East, the Biden-Harris Administration has consistently chosen appeasement instead of the tough policies required to keep the Iranian regime contained," he continued. Risch criticized ongoing nuclear talks with Iran and decisions to unfreeze billions in Iranian assets abroad as failures to establish deterrence.

"Instead of rolling up its sleeves to counter Iran and support Israel, the Biden-Harris administration continues to engage in endless hand-wringing over the potential for escalation – paralyzed and self-deterred at every turn," he added.

Risch also mentioned recent targeted killings by Israel, including Hamas political leader Haniyeh and Fuad Shukr, noting their involvement in past attacks on Americans. "Yet, on the wake of these strikes, the Biden-Harris Administration has admonished our ally Israel while doing nothing to increase pressure on Iran," he concluded.