Fedorchak statement on resolution reaffirming Iran as world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) released the following statement after voting for a House resolution reaffirming that the Islamic Republic of Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism:
“Iran’s regime continues to fund radical groups, arm proxy militias, and threaten American lives and our allies across the Middle East—contributing to the deaths of hundreds of Americans,” Fedorchak said. “This week’s bipartisan classified briefing with Marco Rubio, Pete Hegseth, John Ratcliffe, and General Dan Caine underscored the significance of the threat we face from an Iran intent on developing nuclear weapons behind a curtain of impenetrable ballistic weapons. Standing with our allies and confronting state-sponsored terrorism is essential to protecting Americans and advancing stability around the world. This resolution sends a strong message that we will not ignore or excuse the regime’s extremist actions.”
Today’s vote follows the U.S. military’s Operation Epic Fury, major combat operations conducted over the weekend against the Iranian regime. The operation dealt a significant blow to the regime’s leadership structure, with 49 of the most senior Iranian regime leaders—including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei—killed in the opening strikes.
Under Article II of the U.S. Constitution, the President has constitutional authority to take military action to protect U.S. national interests without prior congressional approval, especially in response to imminent threats. Additionally, Congress passed the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to give the President authority to "prevent any future acts of international terrorism against the United States.
Previous administrations have widely used this authority. President Obama used the 2001 AUMF to conduct military strikes throughout his tenure in office without seeking additional Congressional approval in Syria, Iraq, Libya, Yemen, Pakistan, and Somalia. President Biden also conducted multiple operations in Iraq, Syria and Yemen under existing authorities. The White House notified Congressional leaders in the House and Senate—both Republican and Democrat—about Operation Epic Fury in advance of the strikes.
The resolution highlights Iran’s longstanding support for terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, as well as its role in attacks that have killed hundreds of American service members and recent proxy strikes against U.S. forces in the region. It also condemns the regime’s continued pursuit of nuclear capabilities and obstruction of international nuclear inspections.
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