Senate Majority Leader Thune Advocates for Diplomatic Resolution in Iran Conflict

Senate Majority Leader Thune Advocates for Diplomatic Resolution in Iran Conflict

FIRST ON FOX: Senate Majority Leader John Thune from South Dakota emphasizes the importance of diplomacy in resolving the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran. He suggests that the future of U.S. military involvement hinges on whether Iran will return to the negotiating table.

Thune articulated his views in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, stating, “Dismantling Iran’s nuclear program is fundamentally what this is about. This can occur through diplomatic channels, which is preferable, or through military action if necessary.” His remarks underline the critical nature of these discussions against a backdrop of escalating conflict.

Concerns Grow Over U.S. Military Involvement

Thune’s comments come at a time of heightened concern among lawmakers regarding the U.S.’s role in a potentially expanding conflict in the Middle East. Conversations in Congress are ongoing, centered around which authority should govern military actions and whether Congress should guide U.S. engagement or allow the president to make independent decisions.

He highlighted the limitations of Israeli military capabilities, suggesting that if Iran demonstrates strategic intelligence, they ought to engage in negotiations to abandon their nuclear ambitions.

Escalating Military Exchanges

In recent days, Israel and Iran have exchanged missile strikes, marking the fifth consecutive day of hostilities. These strikes occurred after Israel targeted key infrastructure related to Iran’s nuclear weapon development last Thursday. While some Iranian facilities sustained significant damage, reports indicate that Israel has struggled to impact the highly fortified Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, according to insights from the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Bipartisan Dialogues on Military Action

Amidst these tensions, bipartisan resolutions are gaining traction in Congress, aimed at ensuring that lawmakers have a formal say in any decisions to engage in military action against Iran. Some members advocate for a strong response to Iran’s nuclear threats, while others propose a more restrained approach, emphasizing the importance of avoiding a full-scale war.

President Donald Trump remains noncommittal on whether the U.S. would resort to direct military action to thwart Iran’s development of nuclear weapons. He continues to press Iranian authorities to return to the negotiating table. Following his early departure from the G7 Summit in Canada, Trump met with his National Security Team in the Situation Room to discuss the evolving situation.

Status of Military Operations and Future Considerations

During this time, Trump indicated via social media that the U.S. has substantial control over Iranian airspace. He noted awareness of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s location but refrained from suggesting any immediate military action.

In contrast, Thune underscored a cautious approach, stating, “We will wait to see how Iran responds. Right now, they appear to be reeling, with their command structures disrupted and uncertainty about their leadership. If they are prudent, they will initiate negotiations.”

Hope for Change in Iran

Thune expressed his hope for internal reform within Iran, believing that a significant shift would emerge if the Iranian populace began to resist the Ayatollah’s regime. He likens the current climate to a pivotal moment in history, suggesting it could mirror the upheaval witnessed during the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which led to the establishment of the Islamic Republic.

Funding for Israel Under Consideration

When questioned about potential funding packages to support Israel, Thune responded cautiously, indicating that Congress would evaluate further assistance if it became necessary. He envisions addressing such funding within the context of ongoing budget reconciliation efforts for the fiscal year 2026.

Global Implications of the Conflict

Thune concluded by highlighting the global significance of the situation, noting that there are broad concerns not just for Israel but for regional stability and worldwide security. He stated, “Currently, there is a universal hope for Israel’s success and a shared desire to avoid deeper U.S. military involvement, while recognizing the geopolitical stakes at play.”