Video confirmation of an Iranian missile striking a United States military base in Bahrain represents an unacceptable act of aggression that demands a swift and decisive response. This attack, a direct assault on American interests and personnel, cannot be tolerated and must be met with strength to deter further Iranian provocations.

The US military presence in Bahrain is a vital component of our national security strategy in the Middle East. Naval Support Activity Bahrain serves as a critical hub for projecting American power and safeguarding our interests in a volatile region. This attack is not just an assault on a military installation; it's an assault on American sovereignty and our commitment to our allies.

Iran's long history of destabilizing behavior, including its support for terrorist groups, its pursuit of nuclear weapons, and its aggressive actions in the region, has made it a clear and present danger to the United States and our allies. This latest attack is merely the most recent example of Iran's blatant disregard for international law and its determination to undermine American influence.

The time for appeasement and diplomacy is over. The Biden administration must demonstrate resolve and project strength to deter further Iranian aggression. This requires a comprehensive strategy that includes both military and economic pressure. We must make it clear to Iran that any attack on American interests will be met with a swift and overwhelming response.

One option is a calibrated military response that targets Iranian military assets and infrastructure. This would send a clear message that the United States will not tolerate attacks on its personnel or facilities. Another option is to reimpose and strengthen economic sanctions, cutting off Iran's access to the resources it needs to fund its destabilizing activities.

In addition to a strong response, the United States must also work with our allies to build a united front against Iranian aggression. This includes strengthening our military alliances with countries like Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the United Arab Emirates. We must also be prepared to provide these countries with the support they need to defend themselves against Iranian threats.

Furthermore, the United States must take a hard line on Iran's nuclear program. We cannot allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons, which would pose an existential threat to the United States and our allies. This requires a credible military option to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, as well as a willingness to impose crippling sanctions if necessary.

It is also critical to expose and counter Iran's malign influence in the region. This includes supporting pro-democracy movements in Iran, countering Iranian propaganda, and working to isolate Iran diplomatically. We must make it clear to the Iranian people that their government's actions are not in their best interests.

This attack is a wake-up call. It is time for the United States to reassert its leadership in the Middle East and to stand up to Iranian aggression. The security of the United States and our allies depends on it. A failure to act decisively will only embolden Iran and encourage further attacks.

The defense of our nation and its interests requires vigilance and strength. The attack on the Bahrain base is a reminder that we must remain vigilant and prepared to defend ourselves against those who seek to harm us. The time for weakness is over. It is time for strength and resolve.

The United States must send a clear message to Iran: aggression will not be tolerated, and any attack on American interests will be met with a swift and overwhelming response. The future of the Middle East, and indeed the security of the United States, depends on it. Failure is not an option.

We must stand firm against those who threaten our freedom and our way of life. The Iranian regime has shown itself to be an enemy of the United States and a threat to global security. It is time to confront this threat head-on and to defend our interests with unwavering resolve.