MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

Congressman David Scott Statement On the Events Unfolding in the Middle East

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

At approximately 3:00 a.m. local time, 7:00 p.m. in Illinois, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a preemptive military strike targeting Iran’s nuclear program and key personnel. Israel has struck more than 300 targets, including nuclear sites, air defenses, and IRGC headquarters This may mark the beginning of a wider conflict in the Middle East. Though we do not yet know the full implications for the United States, our partners, or the global economy, one thing must be clear: America stands with Israel.

Iran’s long record of malign behavior—its threats to wipe Israel off the map, its support for Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis—makes clear why Israel assessed that it could not wait. A nuclear-armed Iran would pose an unacceptable threat not only to Israel but to the entire world.

Israel destroyed Iraq’s nuclear reactor in 1981, and Syria’s in 2007. Later events proved the wisdom of Israel’s actions and benefited the region and the world. I am confident, with Iran on the brink of weaponization, the world will again be grateful that Israel acted to prevent catastrophe.

Just last month, the International Atomic Energy Agency released a comprehensive report documenting Iran’s extensive violations of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Rather than correct course, Iran doubled down, announcing it would accelerate enrichment and stonewall international inspectors. On Wednesday, the IAEA formally censured Iran. Tehran responded with more threats.

In moments like this, American leadership matters. The US stood with Israel in 2023 when it was attacked by Hamas and Hezbollah, and then again in 2024 when Iran launched hundreds of drones, cruise and ballistic missiles. We must do so again today—with resolve, with clarity, and with the unity that defines our most serious moments.

I believe in the strength of the U.S. – Israel alliance. I am grateful for the sacrifice and bravery of the men and women of the United States armed forces and pray for their success and safety. I am immensely proud that every enlisted sailor in our Navy begins their service at Naval Station Great Lakes in my district, where they learn what to do on days like this. I know they are fully prepared precisely for this moment.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

This week, Representatives Rick Larsen (WA-02), Shomari C. Figures (AL-02), Brian Mast (FL-21), Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Nick LaLota (NY-01) introduced bipartisan legislation, the Enhancing Science, Treatment, and Upkeep of America’s Resilient and Important Estuarine Systems (ESTUARIES Act), to reauthorize the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) National Estuary Program (NEP) through 2031.

The NEP is a non-regulatory program that supports locally driven efforts to restore and protect the environmental and economic health of 28 estuaries of national significance, where rivers meet the sea, including Mobile Bay. The reauthorization ensures continued federal support for this critical program, which has protected vital habitats, improved water quality, and fostered regional resilience since its creation in 1987.

“Protecting and restoring Puget Sound, the nation’s largest estuary by water volume, is essential to Washington’s environment, culture and maritime economy,” said Rep. Larsen. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan ESTUARIES Act to reauthorize the National Estuary Program and continue investing in the health of our nation’s estuaries.”

This bill is endorsed by the Association of National Estuary Programs and the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program.

“The National Estuary Program is one of the smartest investments Congress can make in clean water, resilient infrastructure, and local economies,” said Joyce Novak, Chair of the Association of National Estuary Programs. “Reauthorizing the NEP ensures that coastal communities can continue to lead with science, partner across sectors, and deliver real results where they matter most. We thank our bipartisan champions in Congress for recognizing the power of this program to protect both ecosystems and economies.”

“The National Estuary Program has a long history of bi-partisan support in the State of Alabama, with champions from both sides of the aisle,” said Roberta Swann, Director of the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program. “This public-private partnership gives coastal Alabama communities local control over their natural resources, leading to better outcomes for long-term management and creating value by balancing conservation with development. Mobile Bay NEP’s collective impact model means more people, who are tied to the waters through economy, or history, or just because it makes their life better, have buy-in for the wise stewardship of our estuaries and coasts. Whether from communities, local governments, research institutions, or business and industry, we all benefit when we work together to protect the waters we share.”

Read the full announcement here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

Larsen Releases Statement on Crash of Air India Flight

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement after Israel carried out preemptive strikes on Iran:

“For weeks, Israel had indications that Iran was racing to advance its uranium enrichment program and develop a nuclear bomb. Despite repeated warnings from Israel, America, and the United Nations to comply with nuclear restrictions, Iran did not relent in its efforts. Yesterday, Israel determined that it was fast approaching a point of no return for stopping Iran’s nuclear program. With the window of opportunity for a preemptive strike closing, Israel made its own decision to strike key Iranian nuclear and military targets.

“The international community has long made it clear that a nuclear-armed Iran is an unacceptable threat. For Israel, that threat is existential. Iranian leaders have stated their intention to see Israel ‘wiped of the map.’ Israel has a right to defend itself and has always been transparent that it would take military action to assure its security if Iran approached nuclear capability. That is what we saw yesterday. Following Hamas’ October 7 terror attacks, Israel took similar action to defeat Hezbollah – another proximate Iranian threat to the Israeli people.

“I believe the Trump Administration’s decision to abandon the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action without an alternative agreement contributed to Iran’s enrichment progress and thus to the circumstances that necessitated Israel’s strike yesterday. I urge the Administration not to allow Iran’s nuclear program to advance so far again.

“Iran has already begun to retaliate against Israel. While our ally has successfully defended itself from initial Iranian drone and missile attacks, America needs to do its part to counter further Iranian strikes against Israeli and American targets in the region, just as the Biden Administration coordinated the defense against Iran’s missile attacks on Israel last year.

“Iran deems America one of its greatest adversaries other than Israel. We must not allow Iran to endanger us all with nuclear weapons. Every nation that wants to see peace and stability restored in the region ought to share that mission.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), released the following statement in response to Israel’s defensive strikes against the Iranian regime:

“Iran’s accelerating nuclear program, developed in secret and in violation of international agreements, poses a direct threat to our national security and the safety of the entire region. With a long track record of supporting terrorism – particularly through its regional terrorist proxy network – obstructing international inspections, and calling for the destruction of Israel, the Iranian regime has made its intentions unmistakably clear.

“Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has long directed and armed terrorist proxies including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and the Houthis in Yemen – groups responsible for deadly attacks on civilians, Israeli population centers, and U.S. personnel and assets across the region.

“Faced with an existential threat, Israel acted to protect its citizens and prevent a nuclear-armed adversary from gaining ground. I support Israel’s right to defend itself and to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of its people.

“Preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is critical not only for Israel, but for the security of the United States and our allies. This is a moment that calls for resolve and unity from the international community.

“In Congress, there is strong bipartisan agreement that Iran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. I will continue working across the aisle to uphold that commitment. As a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittees on Defense and Homeland Security, I remain focused on strengthening our strategic partnerships, supporting our allies, and safeguarding peace and security at home and abroad.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement after Israel launched military strikes on Iran overnight.

“I stand with Israel. A world with fewer nuclear weapons is a safer one for everyone. The autocratic and theocratic Iranian regime could launch nuclear weapons not only at Israel, but also U.S. military bases and other U.S. interests.

“I worry about the safety of innocent civilians in Israel, Iran and elsewhere in the region. I urge that innocent civilians not be targeted. I also worry about U.S. personnel stationed in the Middle East. Iran must not target U.S. personnel. 

“What makes this situation even more volatile is that the United States, a longstanding ally of Israel, does not have a President respected or trusted on the world stage. This makes our country and the world less safe. This escalation happened because Donald Trump is a weak president who is focused on the wrong priorities in the region. While Iran ratcheted up its nuclear program, Trump was focused on getting an illegal gift from Qatar of a used 747 ‘palace in the sky.’ He also chose to go to Saudi Arabia earlier this year to make corrupt deals that benefit his family. He has not visited Israel since becoming President.

“By Trump’s design, our government lacks leaders who can manage a crisis. We live in a dangerous world and entrusting the world’s most powerful military to former TV host Pete Hegseth is extraordinarily irresponsible. Secretary of State Rubio’s weak and feckless statement yesterday was troubling too and reflects an indifference towards ensuring the U.S. is the global leader it once was. These are the moments where a competent cabinet matters.

“The Iranian regime must not gain nuclear weapons and we must secure a diplomatic solution that avoids an all-out war in the Middle East. I am praying for the safety of the civilians who are in harm’s way and for our service members stationed across the region.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Washington, DC — Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement today after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its proposed Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volume requirements for 2026 and 2027.

“Today’s announcement rightfully recognizes the key role biofuels play in American energy security,” Smith said. “If finalized, these volumes will support our agriculture producers, provide much needed certainty to the industry, and ensure consumers have greater access to affordable liquid fuels. I thank Administrator Zeldin and President Trump for their continued support of American biofuels and look forward to working with them to ensure today’s RVOs have the intended effect of promoting American energy production.”

BACKGROUND:

Congressman Smith first introduced a bill to approve year-round sale of E15 in 2015.

On May 16, Smith, Reps. Ashley Hinson (R-IA), and Angie Craig (D-MN) joined 25 colleagues in a letter to the President urging for robust blending requirements in the ongoing RFS rulemaking.

On April 22, Smith, Craig, Hinson, and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) led 25 members of Congress in a letter urging the administration to lower prices at the pump by providing a summertime E-15 waiver.

On March 11, Smith led a bipartisan press conference highlighting grassroots support for eliminating restrictions on E15 sales.

On February 13, Smith and Craig introduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to enable the year-round, nationwide sale of E15. Read more about the bipartisan, bicameral legislation here.

On February 6, 2025, Smith and Craig led nearly 30 colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to EPA  Administrator Lee Zeldin. The letter emphasized the important role of the American biofuels industry in maximizing energy abundance and affordability while encouraging the EPA to issue timely and science-driven guidance to fulfill the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS).

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