Three American soldiers were tragically killed in an Iranian-backed militia attack in Jordan over the weekend, adding to the alarming number of attacks targeting U.S. bases in the Middle East since October, which now stands at 165. The loss of these brave individuals, Army Specialist Kennedy Sanders, Moffitt, and Rivers, has caused immense grief not only to their families but also to their fellow soldiers who continue to serve in the region. Their parents, amidst their heartbreak, have chosen to honor their daughters' sacrifices and pray for those who are still serving.
One of the grieving parents, who happens to be Nikki Haley, a military wife and former governor, expressed her deep sorrow and anger over the loss of these soldiers. She questioned why it had to come to this and criticized the lack of action in response to the escalating attacks. Haley stressed the urgent need to reimpose sanctions on Iran, cut off its funding, and dismantle the infrastructure that supports these attacks. She emphasized the importance of hitting Iran's leadership strategically rather than engaging in a full-scale military operation.
The situation in the Middle East has become increasingly volatile and dangerous, according to Secretary of State Blinken, who highlighted that it is reminiscent of the region's instability in 1973 or even earlier. The decision to reenter the Iran nuclear deal and lift sanctions has been heavily criticized as it has bolstered Iran's proxies, such as Hamas, Houthis, and Hezbollah. The rise in drone strikes orchestrated by these groups demands a swift and effective response from the U.S. military.
In addition to the security concerns in the region, concerns were also raised about the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), an aid organization that has been providing assistance in Gaza. It was revealed that 190 UN employees have direct ties to Hamas, with twelve of them participating in the October 7th attack inside Israel. Ambassador Haley, who previously advocated for cutting off funding to UNRWA due to its association with terrorism, criticized the Biden administration for reinstating the funding.
As the 2024 presidential race approaches, Haley is actively campaigning in South Carolina, where she served as governor. Despite trailing in the polls, she remains optimistic and cited her approval rating in the state as evidence of her ability to connect with voters. Haley expressed her determination to close the gap and emphasized her track record as a successful governor, assuring the people of South Carolina that she would be an effective president.
The sentiment that the two-party system is broken and corrupt was echoed by independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He highlighted the influx of corporate money into both parties, particularly from military contractors and pharmaceutical companies, contributing to the perception of corruption and compromise. This increasing awareness of the deep-rooted problems in the political system has sparked a growing demand for change.
As the nation mourns the loss of these brave soldiers and grapples with the alarming rise of attacks in the Middle East, discussions around improving security measures, reevaluating international aid organizations, and addressing systemic flaws are gaining traction. The urgent need for a resolute and strategic approach in dealing with Iran and its proxies remains a top priority to ensure the safety of American troops and allies in the region.
