As discussions unfold among lawmakers regarding the U.S. role in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, Representative Ilhan Omar, part of the Progressive “Squad,” made a surprising assertion claiming that the U.S. isn’t under attack.
“No one is attacking or engaging Americans. It’s time we stop involving them in wars that primarily serve Israel,” she said, referring to comments made in response to former President Donald Trump.
Trump, on his social media platform, called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and noted that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, isn’t currently attacking the U.S. but indicated America’s tolerance is limited.
A digital report from Fox News countered Omar’s claim, presenting evidence of Iran’s direct and proxy attacks on U.S. forces, support for terrorism, and assassination plots aimed at Americans.
Omar’s office hasn’t responded to requests for clarification on her statements.
In another headline, Trump promised a “full strength” response from the U.S. military if Iran were to strike America. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran still targets the U.S., emphasizing its long-standing enmity.
The Justice Department recently charged several individuals, including Iranian nationals, in connection with a scheme to kill U.S. citizens, including Trump.
Notably, Iran has been directly linked to the deaths of hundreds of U.S. service members in Iraq between 2003 and 2011, culpable for approximately 17% of American fatalities during that time, according to military reports.
Increased tensions persist as reports indicate that Iranian-backed groups have launched numerous attacks on U.S. troops across the region, with estimates suggesting they may have caused more than 600 American deaths.
Bill Roggio, the editor of the Long War Journal, testified about Iran’s role in supporting terrorism, suggesting their influence on groups like the Taliban and al-Qaeda has had profound consequences for American lives.
Specifically, Roggio noted Iran’s extensive backing of the Taliban, which he asserted has directly facilitated numerous attacks against American officials.
Iran’s efforts to retaliate against the U.S. have also included strikes on military bases, illustrating ongoing hostilities.
There have been complaints regarding Iran’s culpability in attacks on U.S. personnel, as well as in historical instances like the 1983 bombings in Lebanon, where American lives were lost.
In more recent events, Iran-affiliated militias have ramped up assaults on U.S. forces, confirming that the longstanding conflicts show no signs of resolution.
In conclusion, while Omar and others may argue that Americans are not being attacked, the reality on the ground reflects a different story, with ongoing threats and casualties linked to Iranian actions.
