The ongoing U.S. military operation against Iran, which began February 28th with strikes aimed at destroying Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile capabilities, navy, and other strategic assets, has prompted a range of reactions from Republican senators. While most GOP lawmakers initially supported President Trump’s actions – evidenced by the Senate’s largely party-line vote on March 4th to block a bipartisan war powers resolution that would have curtailed or required congressional approval for the conflict – several prominent voices have emphasized the need for a swift conclusion rather than a prolonged engagement.
Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO), a key Trump ally, became one of the most vocal advocates for an early exit during his appearance on Jesse Watters Primetime on Tuesday. Hawley urged the president to “declare victory” and withdraw U.S. forces, arguing that core objectives have already been met.
Watters: Do you think the President is going to look for an off-ramp or keep going?
Hawley: I think he [Trump] has achieved his objectives the way that he’s laid them out… What is there, really, that’s left to do that we haven’t already done?
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We have totally destroyed, forever, their nuclear program. We have destroyed their ballistic missiles. We have destroyed their navy. This has been a total success… I think we ought to say to our heroes, ‘Thank you for a job well done.’ This has been absolutely amazing. It’s been amazing. It’s been historic. And now it’s time to declare victory.
Hellbound and Down 