Indian American legislators denounce Iran's assault on Israel

April 16:
Iran launched a missile and drone assault on Israel on April 13 and into the early hours of April 14 in response to what it perceived as an Israeli attack on its Damascus consulate the previous week, resulting in thirteen casualties.

Some members of the Indian American Congress have spoken out against the assault on Israel. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal took to the microblogging service X (previously Twitter) to express her concern with the Iranian government's attack on Israel, stating that it could lead to a broader regional war. This attack and the escalating hostilities that brought us here are both deeply wrong. Right now, we have to prioritise de-escalation.

"It is commendable that Biden made it clear to the Israeli government that the United States will not participate in any form of military response that intensifies hostilities. An immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian supplies to Gaza, and the release of all hostages must be our top priorities. Following that path is the best course of action," she emphasised.

Ro Khanna, a congressman, "unequivocally condemned" the assault on Israel. An open breach of international law, this escalation poses serious risks. "The United States and our allies must make it plain that Iran's behaviour is intolerable and prevent this from turning into a regional conflict," he wrote on X.

Rep. Shri Thanedar, who called Israel a "key ally in the Middle East," vowed that the United States would always be committed to ensuring the security of Israel. I will remain steadfast in my support for the Israeli people at this difficult time, and I will keep a careful eye on the latest developments.

U.S. backing for Israel's security will continue to be "ironclad," according to senior House Foreign Affairs Committee Democrat Ami Bera.
Also denouncing Iran's "unconscionable act" against Israel was Jenifer Rajkumar, an assemblywoman from New York State. I take great pride in the fact that the United States of America helped fund the air defence systems known as Iron Dome and David's Sling, which were able to intercept 99% of the missiles and drones fired by Iran. Unfortunately, shrapnel from an Iranian rocket seriously damaged a 7-year-old Israeli-Bedouin girl. War disproportionately affects innocent people like her, and the international community must unite and employ all diplomatic means at its disposal to end the bloodshed and suffering that has already begun, she stated.