The recent airstrikes overseen by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin from the hospital have raised questions about his role in the operation. The administration has stated that President Biden specifically directed Secretary Austin to oversee the airstrikes, and he monitored the situation in real-time from the hospital. Officials have reassured that Secretary Austin had full access to the necessary communication channels for the operation. Reports suggest that Secretary Austin sounded normal and in command of the situation, with no concerns about his ability to execute the operation from the hospital.
While there are questions about the handling of Secretary Austin's health situation and the delayed notification to President Biden, the government is conducting a review to ensure such occurrences do not happen again.
Meanwhile, criticism has emerged from both parties in Congress, arguing that President Biden should have sought congressional approval for the airstrikes. The White House defends the decision stating that the strikes were justified as acts of self-defense and in protection of U.S. personnel overseas and commercial routes in the Red Sea. They also claim that some congressional notifications were made to key committee heads and congressional leadership.
The urgency of the airstrikes is underlined by the persistent attacks from Houthi rebels, who have targeted U.S. vessels and posed a threat to commercial routes. The administration emphasizes the need to respond to these attacks, as the Houthis are Iranian proxies and pose risks to global security. Citing previous instances where Iranian proxies have threatened U.S. and Israeli interests, the administration argues that they have a responsibility to protect their personnel and allies.
The concern that these airstrikes may escalate tensions and drag the United States into a broader regional conflict is acknowledged. However, the U.S. believes that the Iranian proxies, such as the Houthis, have been escalating their attacks, and a strong response is necessary to deter further aggression. The administration highlights that Iran supports and empowers such proxy groups, ultimately jeopardizing U.S. interests and national security.
While the United States aims to avoid a larger conflict with Iran, the protection of global shipping routes, including the Red Sea, is of paramount importance. The administration asserts that the Middle East is currently in turmoil, and a disruption to global shipping in the region would have severe economic consequences. Diplomatic efforts have been made to address the situation with the Houthis, but the administration maintains that a proportionate response is necessary to safeguard U.S. national security and the interests of their allies.
With concerns about being entangled in another Middle East conflict, given recent events in Afghanistan and Iraq, the administration emphasizes the vital role the United States plays in protecting global shipping. They stress that relying on diplomatic avenues and coalition-building before resorting to military action is crucial. The administration also reminds skeptics that a disruption in global shipping routes would eventually impact the economy, making it necessary to address threats that could hamper these routes.
In conclusion, while questions remain regarding the handling of Secretary Austin's health situation and the need for congressional approval, the administration justifies the airstrikes as acts of self-defense and protection of U.S. personnel and global shipping routes. They argue that the response was necessary due to the escalating attacks from Iranian proxies and the potential economic impact of disrupted shipping routes.
