Duval Times

Jan 31, 2024

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) recently appeared on America's Newsroom to address several pressing issues, including the recent killings of American service members by Iran-backed militias, Iran's support for militia groups in the Middle East, and the negotiations to free American hostages in Israel.

Speaking about the murder of three American service members by Iran-backed militias, Rubio expressed his concern and highlighted his previous warnings about such attacks. He emphasized the need to hold Iran directly responsible for the actions of these groups, stating, "I said unless we made it very clear to Iran that they would be held directly responsible for the attacks of these groups, these groups are going to attack... Two months later, that's what happened."

Rubio further explained Iran's involvement in these attacks, stating, "For Iran, this is very easy. They have these groups that they supply weapons to... They supply targeting information... All of that logistical support comes from the Iranians." He pointed out that Iran's goal is to inflict pain on America due to its support for Israel and to drive the U.S. out of the region. Rubio stressed the importance of reestablishing deterrence, asserting that if deterrence is not regained, more strikes against Americans can be expected.

Addressing Iran's control over the militias attacking U.S. bases, Rubio stated, "These groups don't exist without them... They don't just provide the weapons. They don't just provide the training. They provide the logistical and targeting support... It's all being coordinated by Iran."

Turning to the negotiations to free American hostages held by Hamas, Rubio acknowledged the challenges in dealing with hostage situations. He explained that while it is important to bring attention to the hostages, it is also necessary to avoid public discussions for various reasons. Rubio highlighted the difficulty of confronting an enemy that does not value human life, including their own, and sees martyrdom as glorious. He emphasized the importance of valuing human life and the need to secure the release of the hostages.

Rubio concluded by emphasizing the evil that the United States and its allies confront in dealing with groups like these worldwide. He stated, "Every day they're in captivity and abused is a reminder of the evil that we are confronting, not just [the United States] and Israel, but with groups like these all around the world."

In his discussion with America's Newsroom, Senator Marco Rubio provided insights into the Iran-backed militias' attacks on American service members, Iran's control over these militias, and the ongoing negotiations to release American hostages. Rubio stressed the need to hold Iran accountable and reestablish deterrence to prevent further attacks.