Tensions remain high in the Middle East
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) - Tensions remain high in the Middle East despite a supposed ceasefire between Iran and Israel. Drones attacked military bases in Iraq overnight, including some housing U.S. troops. This all comes less than 24 hours after Iran launched a retaliatory missile attack on a U.S. military base.
President Donald Trump is heading to the Netherlands Tuesday for a NATO Summit that will now largely focus on his decision to strike three nuclear sites in Iran.
Iran launched missiles at a U.S. military base in Qatar after President Trump approved strikes against three Iranian nuclear sites.
"The president warned them not to retaliate,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.).
Iran confirmed the attack was a direct response to the U.S. strikes. President Trump called Iran's response "very weak" and stressed no one was hurt.
"They told us first they were going to do it so the missiles were easily intercepted,” said Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.).
Republicans are largely lining up behind President Trump's strategy.
"To our friends in Israel, finish the job. Do what you have to do to bring about the regime change that will allow your children sleep through the night. To the American people, wake up!" said Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).
Despite pushback from other White House officials the president is calling for a regime change in Iran.
"If they refuse to engage in diplomacy moving forward, why shouldn't the Iranian people rise up against this brutal, terrorist regime?" asked White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Democrats continue to blast President Trump's decision to attack Iran without permission from Congress.
"The bombing of Iran was an act of war,” said Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.).
Qatar is now calling on the U.S. and Iran to return to the negotiating table to settle a nuclear deal.