Republicans blast Biden response to American death in Syria as 'weak,' 'indefensible'

Republican lawmakers on Friday lambasted President Biden for his response to the death of an American in Syria, arguing that he's showing weakness and failing to deter America's adversaries.

The criticism came one day after Biden ordered the U. S. military to carry out retaliatory airstrikes in Syria, where Iranian forces had killed a U.S. contractor and wounded six other Americans in a drone strike. The U.S. launches reportedly killed eight Iranians.

Iranian-backed proxy forces then proceeded to carry out their own retaliatory strikes on Friday, launching rockets that targeted a U. S. base in northeast Syria. There are no U.S. casualties and no damage to the base, according to first assessments.

Republicans in Congress said the apparent tit-for-tat between the U. S. and Iran is a sign of weakness on the part of the Biden administration.

"President Biden and his national security team are letting America down," said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S. C. "I fear General Milley and Secretary of Defense Austin are not proving to be up to the task of providing the deterrence America needs to remain safe. However, the ultimate blame for the failing foreign policy and military situation we find ourselves in lies with President Biden."

Biden was referring to Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

"America has only one path available when attacked – respond swiftly and vigorously with overwhelming, punishing force designed to make enemies wary of engaging with the United States. Being strong is the best deterrence against future attacks," added Graham.... (Read more)

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