Senators Rick Scott and Jim Banks said Monday that the chances of successful diplomacy with Tehran are low, and warned that failure would likely lead to renewed U.S. military strikes. Scott told Fox News that bombing Iran 'probably' will be necessary. Banks stated that if Iran does not quickly reach a deal, President Trump 'will bomb them again.'
The warnings from Scott and Banks add to a growing chorus of Republican voices expressing skepticism about the diplomatic track with Iran. Senator Lindsey Graham made a similar prediction on June 21, stating he expected the talks to fail and foresaw the possibility of a new war, as The Zioneer reported at the time. Senator John Kennedy previously demanded progress within 60 days or a return to military action.
The assessments come amid ongoing negotiations between the Trump administration and the Islamic Republic. The Zioneer has reported on a series of Republican legislative maneuvers regarding Iran policy, including a failed Senate bid to limit President Trump's authority for new military action against Iran. While the administration has pursued a dual-track policy of military pressure and diplomacy, these senators are asserting that the likelihood of a diplomatic resolution is falling.
Scott, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, suggested on Fox News that diplomacy has run its course. Banks's statement was more direct, portraying a clear ultimatum for Tehran. Both senators framed the situation as one where the U.S. must be prepared to exercise military force to achieve its objectives.
3 developments
- DevelopingSenator Kennedy demands progress on Iran within 60 days or US should strike
- DevelopingSenator Kennedy asks Hegseth if US can strike Mount Machush; Hegseth cites unmatched capabilities
- DevelopingSenator Tom Cotton backs Trump's heavy sanctions on Iran, warns of Tehran's 'terror attacks'
- DevelopingSenator John Kennedy says 'no one's confident' Iran will act after new US deal
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