WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, October 1, 2024, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) released the following statement on the second direct Iranian attack against Israel:

“Today, the Iranian regime launched a second major direct attack against our critical ally in the Middle East, Israel — putting innocent civilians in harm’s way. Since October 7, Iran, the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism, has been orchestrating a campaign to target Israel directly and indirectly through its terrorist proxies on multiple fronts. This includes Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), and militias in Iraq and Syria. They all share Tehran’s mission to destroy the State of Israel, kill Jews, and undermine democracy — including ours. 

No nation can sit idly by while under direct attack and Israel has every right to defend herself and her citizens. There must be consequences for Iran’s actions. The US has and will always stand with our key democratic ally, Israel, against Iran and its terrorist proxies.

Through international cooperation, Congress and the Administration must work to further curb Iran’s destabilizing and reckless conduct that continues to spread havoc, create violence, and cause instability in the region.”

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