“This administration’s appeasement strategy towards Iran has enabled Iran to fund Hamas and Hezbollah and their attacks on Israel […] Jack Lew is part of the problem, and as a result, I oppose his nomination.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), chairman of the Senate Republican Conference and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today delivered the following remarks during a press conference in support of Israel in their fight against Hamas terrorists..
“America stands with Israel. They are under attack by purely evil Hamas terrorists. Thousands are dead, including Americans. The atrocities are horrific.
“Israel is taking action right now to defend itself and its people. America cannot let Israel stand alone. That means getting Israel the weapons and military assistance that they need. Iron dome interceptors, precision-guided missiles, protective equipment, and intelligence support. We’re committed to ensuring that Israel can fight against all terrorist threats and protect their people.
“This morning, we had the opportunity in the Foreign Relations Committee to question Jack Lew – who is President Biden’s nominee to be the Ambassador to Israel from the United States. Now, don’t forget, Jack Lew negotiated Obama’s terrible Iran deal. As Secretary of Treasury, he sent pallets full of cash to Iran. Under the lenient Biden Administration, Iran has been able to export $80 billion worth of oil. So much of it to China. At the same time the administration strangles American oil and gas production.
“This administration’s appeasement strategy towards Iran has enabled Iran to fund Hamas and Hezbollah and their attacks on Israel. I say all of this because Jack Lew is part of the problem, and as a result, I oppose his nomination.
“We have a capable Chargé d’Affaires who is in the Embassy now. Stephanie Hallett is a professional Foreign Service officer who has spent an entire career in the region – knows the people, knows the region. The president should nominate her as ambassador. She could be confirmed quickly.
“America’s support for Israel is unwavering. The message needs to be clear from the president, from his ambassador, and from the people – all of us – serving in Congress today.”
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