Interior Alaska News

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska has called on President Biden to adopt a more aggressive stance against Iranian activities in the Red Sea. In a letter addressed to the President, Sullivan urged him to threaten military action against Iranian spy ships if attacks on American service members by Houthi forces persist.

This recommendation comes after testimony from General Erik Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command, who highlighted recent U.S. strikes on Iranian proxies as sending "a very strong deterrent message." However, Kurilla noted that Iran has not faced sufficient repercussions for orchestrating attacks against American troops.

The senator's letter was initially reported in an article by Politico national security reporter Alexander Ward.

In his communication with President Biden, Sullivan expressed concern over the growing boldness of Houthi terrorists backed by Iran. He mentioned a recent incident where 28 drones and missiles were launched in the Red Sea aiming to sink American ships.

Sullivan criticized the lack of consequences faced by Iran for its support of these actions and urged decisive measures to ensure Tehran is held accountable. He stated that without significant repercussions, deterrence remains only temporary.

The full text of Sullivan's letter emphasizes the need for immediate action: "Tell Iran that the next Houthi missile or drone launched at an American ship will result in the sinking of Iran’s spy ships that target our Navy."

Sullivan argues that imposing costs on Iran is essential for deterring further aggression and preventing future threats to U.S. sailors and Marines.