Lindsey Graham Praises Trump's Iran Strikes as 'Brilliant' and 'Long Overdue'

Navy Fleet Goals and China's Naval Expansion

• 🚢 Senator Graham inquired about the Navy's fleet goal of 381 manned and 134 unmanned ships, totaling 515, and received confirmation that the current number is 292.
• ⏳ Graham expressed concern that achieving the fleet goal within the next 10 years is uncertain, especially with China projected to have 435 ships by 2030.
• 💰 He suggested a dedicated funding pot, similar to the Manhattan Project, for the Navy to accelerate shipbuilding outside the regular budget topline.

Geopolitical Threats and US Interests

• 🌍 Graham affirmed that Iran is a threat to the United States and that the outcome of the Russia-Ukraine conflict matters to the US.
• 🇹🇼 He questioned if China is observing the Russia-Ukraine situation to gauge its potential impact on a future invasion of Taiwan.
• ⚠️ Threats from ISIS and Al Qaeda were also acknowledged, with the understanding that they aim to harm the US.

Operation Midnight Hammer and Iran's Nuclear Program

• 💥 Graham congratulated the Navy on Operation Midnight Hammer, describing the strikes on Iran's enrichment capability as a brilliant, bold, and long overdue effort.
• 🎯 He supported the operation's goal of degrading Iran's ability to develop nuclear weapons, noting that enrichment capability is essential for this.

Iran's Regime Goals and Peace Prospects

• 🕊️ Graham raised concerns that a ceasefire with Iran might lead to rearmament rather than lasting peace.
• 🇮🇱 He highlighted that Iran has not abandoned its goal of destroying Israel, nor its aim to dominate Islam and attack Saudi Arabia.
• 🤝 Graham questioned the feasibility of negotiating with a regime whose constitution calls for the destruction of Israel and its Jewish population.
• 💡 He concluded that true peace with Iran is only possible through a regime change or a significant alteration in its behavior and ideology.