Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered remarks today on the Senate floor commemorating the September 11 attacks, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance against terrorism.

“Twenty-three years ago today, forces of evil brought their war on the United States to American soil,” McConnell stated. “They filled a clear blue sky with smoke, fire, and the shattered lives of 2,977 innocent people.”

He highlighted the heroism of first responders and volunteers in the immediate aftermath of the attacks and underscored America's resolve to combat terrorism. "The terrorists had started this war, but America resolved then to finish it," he said.

McConnell criticized both current and past administrations for what he perceives as a wavering commitment to counterterrorism efforts. He urged his colleagues in Congress not to hinder counterterrorism authorities and stressed the importance of section 702 intelligence collection authority.

“The Biden-Harris Administration pretends the war on terrorism is over,” McConnell asserted. He referenced recent U.S. military operations against ISIS in Iraq and other global hotspots as evidence that threats persist.

He also criticized the administration's approach to terrorist detention at Guantanamo Bay and its withdrawal from Afghanistan, which he described as a "disastrous retreat" that undermined American credibility.

McConnell questioned the effectiveness of over-the-horizon operations post-withdrawal, noting a lack of strikes against ISIS-K since 2021 despite ongoing terrorist activities. He cited an analysis indicating increased ISIS-K plots and attacks over recent years.

Referencing Iran’s influence on various terrorist groups, McConnell pointed to Hamas' attack on October 7 as evidence of Iran’s involvement in regional violence. He criticized what he called the administration's passive approach toward Iran and its proxies.

“America’s weakness and hesitation will not deter our adversaries,” McConnell warned, calling for stronger support for allies like Israel and Ukraine. He concluded by stressing that America must remain vigilant against today's threats just as it did twenty-three years ago.