Slotkin on Israel-Iran attacks: ‘Spiral of violence'
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — As by Iranian missiles Friday in retaliation for the deadly Israeli attacks on the nation's nuclear and military structures, U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich) is voicing her concerns that the conflict could lead to a larger conflict that puts the entire Middle East at risk.
Israel attacks Iran's nuclear and missile sites, Iran responds with drone strikes
Slotkin, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement Friday, expressing worry that the conflict and the drastic effects it could have if it were to become a 'spiral of violence' leading to consequences for the Middle East and the United States:
'The strikes in the Middle East create a moment of uncertainty, and there's no doubt that American troops and civilians in the region — particularly friends and family of Michiganders — are at risk of being caught in the crossfire.'But while it's too early to tell how this will all play out, Israel has struck a blow against the hardline Iranian government, a state sponsor of terror that has long held out the threat of a potential nuclear weapon over the region.'Iran has fired ballistic missiles at U.S. bases and Israel for years, and I have seen up close how Iran's proxy forces have been responsible for the deaths of hundreds of Americans across the Middle East, and countless civilians.'But here's the thing: as with all conflicts, there's serious danger of a spiral of violence that leads to real consequences for the U.S., and people in the region. Addressing that risk typically takes professionals with a depth of experience. It's essential that the Administration manage the situation — and that's the point that concerns me most.'
U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), June 13, 2025
What to know about Israel's major attack on Iran
Israel attacked Iran Friday with warplanes and drones that it had previously smuggled into the country, using them to attack key facilities and kill military generals and scientists—saying these measures were necessary before Iran was able to build an atomic weapon. In exchange, Iran retaliated by sending a swarm of drones at Israel, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warning of 'severe punishment.'
Israel attacks Iran's capital with explosions booming across Tehran
'Don't think that they hit and it's over. No. They started the work and started the war,' Khamenei said in a recorded message. 'We will not allow them to escape safely from this great crime they committed.'
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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