Countering Iran’s State-Sponsored Terrorism: US Strategies Unveiled

US Strategies to Counter Iran as the World’s Leading State Sponsor of Terrorism

November 18, 2023

According to a report by Fox News, the number of Iranian proxy attacks on US forces has risen to 57. Amidst a world in turmoil, with the Biden administration engulfed in flames, it is crucial for the United States to develop strategies to confront Iran, the top sponsor of terrorism. Jennifer Griffin, Fox News’ senior national security correspondent, highlights the urgent need to address the escalating threats posed by Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who continues to advocate for the death of America.

Four Strategies to Restrain and Defeat Iran’s State-Sponsored Terrorism

In response to these challenges, Senator Johnny Ernst outlines four strategies to curb and defeat Iran’s support for terrorism:

1. Reject the Iran Nuclear Agreement

The restoration of the Obama-Biden Iran nuclear deal will not prevent Iranian proxy attacks on US forces. It is important to refuse this agreement, as it only rewards Iran’s support for terrorism. President Biden’s doubling of appeasement efforts, by securing an additional $10 billion, has only emboldened the ruthless regime.

2. Hold Iran Accountable for Terrorism

President Biden’s refusal to enforce existing sanctions on Iran has resulted in providing over $80 billion to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This, coupled with the additional $6 billion in support for hostage-taking, has empowered Iran and increased its support for terrorism. Senator Ernst calls for the execution of sanctions on Iranian oil and gas shipments, granting the Department of Homeland Security the authority to block shipments and enforce sanctions.

3. Restore the Maximum Pressure Campaign

Following the elimination of terrorist general Qasem Soleimani, the IRGC has placed bounties on former administration officials, including former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. To counter this threat, Senator Ernst aims to restore the “Punishment Act,” a maximum pressure campaign targeting the Iranian government officials and their energy and finance sectors. Sanctions will not be lifted until the State Department proves that the IRGC is no longer attempting to harm US citizens, officials, or Iranian dissidents residing in the United States.

4. Support the Expansion of the Abraham Accords

Iran perceives the Abraham Accords as a significant threat to its interests and regional dominance. Senator Ernst, as co-chair of the Senate Abraham Accords Caucus, supports the expansion of this agreement. By demonstrating support for Israel’s security and cooperation in regional security, the United States can stand up against Iran and its proxies. The current Defense Authorization Act aims to enhance US security in the region through the development of integrated air defense and missile defense infrastructure, while the Maritime Law strengthens defense capabilities against Iran’s illicit maritime activities.

It is crucial to recognize the untrustworthiness of Iran, the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism. Congress must block the flow of billions of dollars into Iran, hold the Iranian regime accountable for its attempts to harm Americans, and strengthen and expand the Abraham Accords. These actions will ensure the safety of American citizens and soldiers while sending a clear message of support to regional partners and allies.

As a combat veteran and Senator from Iowa, Joni Ernst emphasizes the importance of a strategy of strength in countering Iran’s state-sponsored terrorism, rather than relying on appeasement.