WASHINGTON – North Dakota’s congressional members released statements with their responses to the U.S. strikes in Iran Saturday, Feb. 2.

Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, said, “Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism and has been relentless in seeking nuclear capabilities. Despite the administration’s efforts to reach a diplomatic solution, the Iranian regime has refused to negotiate in good faith while murdering their own people. These strikes, in coordination with our ally Israel, will keep the regime from rebuilding its nuclear weapons program. We are grateful for our brave servicemembers for their skill and dedication and pray for their safety and success in keeping our nation secure and free.”

Hoeven is a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee.

Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-ND, said, “This action has been a long time coming. This is a necessary action. This regime in Iran has repeatedly refused to come to the table to even discuss a nuclear deal. What they do is they use these evasive tactics. This endless rhetoric, just to stall while they rebuild their capabilities. And it’s not just because the United States is unwilling to talk — clearly President Trump has given them many opportunities. He’s pleaded with them to come to the table. Iran can never agree to the fundamental steps that are necessary for having a relationship that’s lasting, that’s peaceful, (and) that stabilizes the Middle East.

“Iran is led by radical — not just radical, but extremely radical — Islamic terrorists. President Trump didn’t just sit on the sidelines, like so many presidents before him. He confronted this terrorist regime head on. And when America has the strength, the capability, and the responsibility, as well as the political will to act, we rise at the right moment. And that’s what’s happening right now. That’s what President Trump ordered today. And the world is watching, our allies as well as our adversaries. They’re seeing what we do in these moments, and today it has seen how America leads. We lead with clarity, with confidence, with conviction, and with tremendous capability and the most mighty and sophisticated military in the history of the world.”

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak, R-ND, said, “I support President Trump’s decisive actions in response to Iran’s decades of relentless terrorist activity, its continued pursuit of nuclear weapons, and the grave threat it poses to the United States and our allies who seek freedom and peace.

“We must stand firm against those who threaten our security and the safety of our allies. Under this oppressive regime, neither the Iranian people nor the broader world can fully enjoy peace, stability, and prosperity.

“May God bless our brave service members carrying out this mission. Please join me in praying for their safety and for the success of this operation. Congressional leaders were briefed earlier this week, and I look forward to receiving additional details from the administration on next steps in the region.”