UPDATE - US Congressional leaders voices strong support for Israel amid Iran attack

ADDS REMARKS OF SENATE MINORITY LEADER

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - The top four leaders in the US Congress took to X to voice strong support Saturday for Tel Aviv after Iran launched an airborne attack against Israel.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who previously called for new elections in Israel and criticized the leadership of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said Israel is under attack from Iran.

"We stand with Israel and its people, and the United States will do everything we can to support Israel’s defense against Iran," wrote Schumer.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said in the face of Iran’s attack on Israel, the US must stand with Israel.

"President Biden has insisted that America’s commitment to Israel’s security is ‘ironclad’. It is time for his Administration to match words with actions," McConnell said, adding Biden must lead an international effort to impose sufficient costs on Tehran to compel an end to its aggression.

"Iran’s leaders must know the things they value most are at risk," he said.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said as Israel faces "this vicious attack" from Iran, America must show full resolve to stand with its critical ally.

"The world must be assured: Israel is not alone. I will continue to engage with the White House to insist upon a proper response. The Biden Administration’s undermining of Israel and appeasement of Iran have contributed to these terrible developments," said Johnson.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Iran is a "sworn enemy" of the US.

"America's commitment to Israel's security is ironclad and unbreakable. Iran will not succeed. We stand with the people of Israel during this moment of significant challenge," said Jeffries.

The House will move from its previously announced legislative schedule next week to instead consider legislation that supports Israel and holds Iran accountable.

"The House of Representatives stands strongly with Israel, and there must be consequences for this unprovoked attack. More details on the legislative items to be considered will be forthcoming," House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said in a statement.

Iran began an airborne attack Saturday against Israel in retaliation for an April 1 airstrike on its diplomatic facility in the Syrian capital of Damascus. The strike killed at least seven members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including two top generals.

Iran has accused Israel of carrying out the attack and vowed to respond. Tel Aviv has not officially claimed responsibility for the attack but has for months carried out several strikes against Iranian targets across Syria.

Iran and Hezbollah, its main ally in Lebanon, have said the attack will not go unpunished.