Risch Statement on Meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council Members

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the statement below following a meeting with our Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Jordanian partners:

“I was glad to welcome the ambassadors of the GCC and Jordan to the Capitol to discuss our shared interests in the Middle East. Iran's reaction to Operation Epic Fury proves its commitment to terrorism, including targeting civilian populations and infrastructure in neighboring countries and threatening the free flow of maritime commerce through the Strait of Hormuz. The partnership between the U.S. and Gulf states is strong, and I am grateful for their commitment to the safety of civilians in the region. President Trump has made clear the goal is to eliminate the Iranian threat once and for all, and this mission will benefit the United States, the Middle East, and our Gulf partners. I look forward to continued work with Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan to ensure a safe and prosperous future for all."