NYT Claims Republicans Provide Strong Retaliation Weapons
Democratic Leadership Also Agrees on Iran's Responsibility
"No Substantial Movement Seen," Analysis
In response to Iran firing ballistic missiles targeting Israel, voices in the U.S. political sphere calling for support to Israel and retaliation are gaining strength.
According to a report by The New York Times (NYT) on the 2nd, within the Republican Party, there have been claims that "necessary weapons should be provided to enable Israel to carry out stronger retaliation."
On the 1st (local time), local protesters in front of the British Embassy in Tehran, Iran, cheered news of Iran's missile attack targeting Israel. [Image source=Yonhap News]
Mitch McConnell, Senate Republican Leader, issued a statement that day saying, "Now is the time to replenish essential ammunition supplies for Israel and ensure that the world's foremost terrorist planners and their proxy forces face severe consequences." He emphasized, "It is not enough to just shoot down missiles and drones before they reach Israeli civilians and U.S. personnel in the Red Sea."
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham (South Carolina), who is close to Trump, also urged the bipartisan leadership to convene the House to discuss additional arms aid legislation for Israel.
The Democratic leadership, while more cautious compared to the Republicans, shared the stance that Iran must be held accountable.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said, "The United States will continue to stand by its ally Israel, supporting Israel's right to defend itself," adding, "We will closely monitor developments in the region." Although he did not mention specific measures, he also stated, "Iran and its proxies must be held accountable."
U.S. Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris delivered a message supporting Israel on the 1st (local time) in Washington DC. On that day, Vice President Harris expressed her support for the decision to order U.S. forces to shoot down Iranian missiles aimed at Israel. 2024.10.02 [Image source=Yonhap News]
However, despite these strong statements, the NYT pointed out that the bipartisan leadership has not shown practical moves such as convening members who are focused on election campaigns for the upcoming presidential, congressional, and gubernatorial elections. Instead, the Republicans are urging the Biden administration to intervene more forcefully in the Middle East, while the Democrats appear to focus on solidarity with Israel and calls for easing military tensions rather than pressuring President Biden or Israel to take specific actions.
Meanwhile, Rashida Tlaib, the only Palestinian-American member of Congress (Michigan), posted on social media materials showing the rising stock prices of defense contractors, writing, "This is truly disgusting." She argued, "Remember that members of Congress are allowed to own stocks related to war manufacturing. Every time they vote to send more bombs or send loved ones to the battlefield, they personally profit."
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