Security for Americans and Our Allies

This Saturday, Americans will observe the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Army. Our military has evolved much over two and a half centuries through our struggles for independence, to preserve the Union, claim victory in two world wars, defend freedom, and confront terrorism. Ensuring our armed forces can continue to innovate to keep Americans safe, particularly in light of growing threats to global security, is vitally important.

This week, the Israeli military struck key targets in Iran eliminating high-ranking military leaders and nuclear infrastructure. As the region braces for ongoing conflict, my prayers are with Americans in the Middle East and with our friends and allies in Israel. Israel maintains the right to defend itself against Iran’s decades-long threat to its existence, especially in light of recent developments within Iran’s nuclear program.

We must be clear-eyed about the threat posed by Iran and adversaries globally and on the home front. Antisemitic violence against Americans in Boulder, CO, and outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, as well as Chinese nationals recently charged with agroterrorism smuggling are sober reminders of vigilance necessary to confront threats to our national security.

I am grateful President Trump and negotiators from his administration have been robustly engaged in neutralizing Iran’s nuclear program and Iran’s funding for its allied enemies of Israel. If Iran’s nuclear ambitions were realized, it would be catastrophic for both Israel and the United States, who their leaders have sworn to destroy.

Among the terrorist proxies funded by Iran, the Houthi rebels began targeting commercial shipping and American Naval vessels in the Red Sea following the October 7 attacks in Israel. Since taking office, President Trump has decisively confronted this threat and secured regional trade routes critical for global commerce.

Safeguarding supply chains and standing up for American interests in the global marketplace is an essential component of security efforts around the world. For this reason, I supported two bills passed unanimously by the House this week, the Maritime Supply Chain Security Act and the Secure our Ports Act, to counter China and other rogue states’ efforts to gain influence in American port infrastructure. 

I am also encouraged by the progress signaled by the Trump administration on negotiating a trade deal with China. China has continued to aggressively threaten American allies in the Indo-Pacific such as Taiwan and the Philippines. However, the stronger our standing in economic relations, the better our position is to ensure security for our citizens and our allies.

On June 14, our nation also celebrates Flag Day. At a recent Memorial Day celebration in Central City, I spoke with Vietnam veteran Jim Garfield. His thoughts on the meaning of the red, white, and blue summarize the American values for which he and so many have fought and given their lives. Jim shared, the “F” in flag stands for freedom as around the globe our banner is recognized as a symbol of liberty. The “L” stands for laws and our commitment to equal justice for all. The “A” stands for allies and reminds us of our willingness to stand with our friends around the world. Finally, as the Pledge of Allegiance reminds us, the “G” stands for one nation under God.

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