Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement this evening following the President's speech on the Islamic State. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Loebsack has received briefings regarding the ongoing situation.
"Without question, the security situation in Iraq and Syria and the escalating threat from ISIS is a national security concern for the United States. The challenge with assessing ISIS is not whether these are evil people, because they have clearly proven they are. We have known that for a long time. I agree with the President that we must not put troops back in Iraq, but targeted air strikes may be necessary to degrade and defeat ISIS. We must do everything we can to protect the American people and our interests at home and abroad. Those who pose a real threat to Americans must know, there is no hiding from America's strength.
"The challenge that remains is whether or not certain military actions will create long-term, unintended consequences. Our foreign policy cannot be bomb first, ask questions later - that is what got us into this situation in the first place. Our allies around the world, and specifically in the region, must share this burden and work together to bolster political and economic conditions in Iraq and Syria. We cannot overcome centuries of sectarian strife with bombs alone. Ultimately the governments in Iraq and Syria must take responsibility for their own security."
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