Northeast South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate floor on June 23, 2025, expressing strong concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions and recent military actions. In his speech, Thune emphasized the longstanding position of the U.S. government against Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.

"For decades, the regime in Iran and its terrorist proxies have sought to sow chaos and violence throughout the Middle East," Thune stated. He highlighted that Iran's nuclear enrichment program exceeds peaceful energy requirements, posing a significant threat.

Thune reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon has been a consistent stance of President Trump and other lawmakers. "Since his reelection, President Trump made clear that a peaceful resolution was possible if Iran agreed to give up its nuclear weapons ambitions," he said.

Despite efforts for a diplomatic solution, Iranian leaders refused to abandon their nuclear aspirations. Consequently, President Trump ordered targeted strikes on Saturday aimed at dismantling Iran's nuclear program. Thune commended U.S. service members for their professionalism in executing this mission.

In retaliation, Iran launched attacks against American service members stationed in Qatar and Iraq just hours before Thune's address. "President Trump has been clear that he is not afraid to hold Iran accountable for any retaliation," Thune remarked while noting initial reports indicating no American casualties from these strikes.

He warned Iran against further aggression towards U.S. forces or interests: "If Iran is considering any further attacks against U.S. forces or interests, it should think long and hard about the consequences."

Thune concluded by expressing anticipation for an all-senators briefing scheduled for the following day to discuss these developments with the administration.