Sen. Cruz Issues Statement in Response to the Resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Hariri

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement in response to the resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Hariri:

“The resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Hariri is the latest consequence of Iran's increasingly pervasive influence in Lebanon through its terrorist proxy Hezbollah,” Sen. Cruz said. “Given these developments, it is time for the United States to reassess the military assistance we provide to Lebanon, including to the Lebanese Armed Forces, and conduct a formal review of our strategy there. It was just a few days ago that Lebanon's President Aoun yet again threatened Israel, saying, ‘All the Lebanese are prepared to fight against Israel.’ While the gains from our current policy in the fight against ISIS are significant, the reality of Iran's efforts to fill this vacuum, further entrench itself in Lebanon, and establish a military presence in Syria and a ‘Shia Crescent’ through Iraq cannot be permitted. President Trump gave a strong speech about the importance of standing up to Iran when he rightfully decertified the nuclear deal. The United States and the entire international community must respond to this resignation with a resolute and uncompromising strategy to stop Iran’s expanding aggression that is endangering the security of the United States, Israel, and our Gulf allies in the region."

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