Representative Steve Scalise | Official U.S. House headshot
Representative Steve Scalise | Official U.S. House headshot
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) criticized President Biden's decision to make $6 billion available to Iran despite their support for terrorist groups like Hamas. In a speech on the House floor, Scalise emphasized the dangerous implications of releasing funds to Iran, stating that it ultimately provides funds for terrorism. He highlighted the Iranian President's statement that the money would be spent wherever they decide, including on supporting terrorism.
Scalise argued that the negotiation to provide $6 billion to Iran was ill-advised even before the invasion of Israel by Hamas. He dismissed the notion that Hamas and Iran can be separated, stating that Iran funds Hamas, and it is widely known. He questioned the administration's support for providing the funds, especially after the attacks on Israel, and called for the bill to be supported by the administration.
Referring to the Iranian President's remarks on television, Scalise pointed out that the money belongs to the Islamic Republic of Iran, and they will decide how to spend it. He expressed concern that the funds could be given to Hamas, as the President of Iran himself stated. Scalise dismissed the reassurances of the Biden administration that the money is for humanitarian aid, emphasizing that it is the Iranian President's decision on how to use the funds.
Scalise expressed gratitude for the upcoming vote in the House on the bill and called for an overwhelming bipartisan vote to send it to the Senate. He urged the Senate to take a vocal stance on the issue of funding for Iran. Scalise highlighted the importance of supporting Israel and providing them with the tools they need to combat attacks and terrorism. He called for unity in standing up against Hamas and the group that funds them.
The House Majority Leader reiterated that Iran is the primary funder of Hamas, and giving them $6 billion would only further embolden terrorism. He emphasized the need to support Israel and oppose anti-Semitism and terrorism, both in the Middle East and within the United States. Scalise urged for the passage of the bill and the Senate's cooperation in getting it to the President's desk.
The remarks by Leader Scalise shed light on the concerns surrounding the release of $6 billion to Iran and its potential consequences for supporting terrorism. The bill, if passed, would contribute to efforts to combat terrorism and support Israel in its fight against Hamas.
Click this link to access more information: https://scalise.house.gov/press-releases/Scalise:-$6-Billion-for-Iran-is-$6-Billion-for-Hamas