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McCaul Statement on Death of Qasem Soleimani

January 3, 2020

WASHINGTON, D.C. –Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), the Lead Republican on the Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the death of Qasem Soleimani.

"Iran and its terrorist proxies killed an American this week and attacked our embassy, threatening hundreds of Americans. This came after months of escalating Iranian aggression against the United States and our allies in the Middle East.

"Secretary of Defense Mark Esper said today President Trump would take action if he had reason to believe another attack was imminent. The Administration also made clear it will protect our service members and other Americans in the region.

"Qasem Soleimani made his living wreaking havoc on the freedom-loving people of the Middle East. His resume included nurturing the terrorist group Hezbollah in Lebanon; protecting and enabling the tyrant Bashar al-Assad in Syria; and destabilizing Yemen. He supported militias in Iraq that killed over 600 Americans as well as thousands of Iraqis. According to the Pentagon, Soleimani was actively plotting more attacks on Americans. The President acted decisively to protect our country, diplomats, service members and citizens.

"For months, President Trump exercised restraint in the face of repeated hostility. Iran's aggression continued to escalate. I encourage Iran to finally stand down and discontinue their attacks on Americans."