Senator Daines Responds To Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Joint Address [AUDIO]

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Congress that that negotiations underway between Iran and the United States would "all but guarantee" that Tehran gets nuclear weapons. The prime minister's remarks were part of his lengthy address before a joint session of congress today.

Monday I had the opportunity to speak with Sen. Steve Daines about his expectations for the speech. (The full conversation aired Tuesday on the KMMS-AM Morning Show.)

Shortly after the Israeli leader concluded, Senator Daines released the following statement.

“It was an honor to hear today from Prime Minister Netanyahu — a strong leader for whom I have great respect and admiration. As our nations work together to address the growing threat of a nuclear Iran, it is imperative that we hear directly from Israel's leaders.  Iran's dangerous nuclear weapons program, persistent support of terrorist groups, and determination to expand its presence in the Middle East pose a serious threat not only to Israel, but to the United States and the world. Prime Minister Netanyahu has every right to defend his nation's sovereignty and as our strongest ally, it is critical that the United States stands as a steadfast partner with Israel to support our nations’ shared interests in the Middle East as we work together stop a nuclear-armed Iran.”

 

Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit, spurred by an invitation from House Speaker John Boehner, was considered as a breach of protocol in Democratic circles because the White House was not consulted in advance.