WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement.

“The Trump Administration’s decision to strike Houthi military infrastructure that was used to attack American naval vessels and international shipping was the correct response and highly successful. The President’s national security team had already appropriately advised regional allies before the attack.

“President Trump and his team have admitted that having a journalist in the group text was wrong, will be reviewed and falls in the category of ‘lessons learned’ so that it doesn’t happen again.

“I think President Trump has handled this matter well. Further, I believe that all the participants in the chat were under the impression they were using an appropriate and secure form of communication. This will also fall into the category of ‘lessons learned.’

“However recent revelations about the content of the texts — while not discussing war plans per se — do in fact detail very sensitive information about a planned and ongoing military operation.

“Having said that, Secretary Hegseth’s analysis about why and when the attack was needed was spot on. Secretary Hegseth rightly understands that when American naval vessels are attacked, those responsible should pay a heavy price.

“The actions of the Houthis are not about Europe versus America, they are about making a terrorist organization pay for threatening American military personnel and assets that we have sent into harm’s way. Secretary Hegseth got that right.

“I continue to support all members of President Trump’s national security team. Lessons learned.”

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