By RYAN SKAITH
U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley expressed firm opposition to the use of American military force in Iran, even as the Iranian government continues a violent crackdown on massive anti-government protests.
The Iowa Republican emphasized a preference for non-military solutions to the escalating crisis. “We don’t want military action,” Grassley stated. “I don’t think it’s necessary at this point.”
The Senator’s comments come amid harrowing reports from the region. Current estimates suggest that more than 600 people have been killed and upwards of 10,000 have been detained during the demonstrations. Grassley described the mounting death toll as “too many.”
While ruling out immediate military intervention, Grassley noted that the administration remains in active deliberations. He confirmed that the president has been meeting with a team of military, diplomatic, and national security advisors to weigh potential U.S. responses to the unrest.
