West STL News

Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) has provided a detailed account of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional delegation to the Middle East, led by Republican Senator Joni Ernst. The delegation visited Israel, Egypt, Qatar, and Bahrain, with the aim of assessing the situation on the ground, advocating for the release of American hostages held by Hamas, and planning for the future of Gaza.

During the visit, Congresswoman Wagner emphasized the importance of standing behind Israel in its efforts to combat Hamas and create a demilitarized and deradicalized Gaza. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and deliver a message of support.

The delegation also visited Kibbutz Nir Oz, a farming community that experienced significant brutality at the hands of Hamas terrorists. Congresswoman Wagner had the chance to meet with the families of hostages and was deeply moved by their stories. She called for the immediate release of all American hostages and urged U.S. partners like Qatar and Egypt to exert pressure on Hamas for peace.

In Egypt, the delegation had a meeting with President Abdel El-Sisi to discuss the release of American hostages and learn from Egypt's experiences in countering threats similar to those posed by Hamas. Congresswoman Wagner affirmed her commitment to ensuring the safety of the hostages and defeating Hamas.

At Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Congresswoman Wagner met with Missouri servicemen and women stationed there. She expressed gratitude for their dedication and acknowledged the threats they face from Iran and its proxies in the region.

The delegation also met with Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, to discuss Qatar's role in bringing American hostages home. Congresswoman Wagner urged Qatar to use its leverage over Hamas to secure the release of the hostages and called for the ejection of all Hamas leadership and the cessation of broadcasting misinformation and propaganda by Al Jazeera.

In Bahrain, the delegation commended the country for its commitment to peace through its involvement in the historic Abraham Accords. They discussed the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation in the region and addressing the threats posed by Iran and its terrorist proxies.

During their visit to NSA-Bahrain, the headquarters of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and the 5th Fleet, the delegation met with servicemen and women who are risking their lives to protect against Houthi attacks. Congresswoman Wagner emphasized the need for continued engagement in the region to ensure the safety of American lives.

Regarding Iranian aggression, Congresswoman Wagner highlighted the numerous attacks on U.S. troops and merchant ships by Iranian proxies. She stressed the importance of U.S. leadership in deterring these attacks and praised the recent counterstrikes launched by the U.S. and its allies.

Congresswoman Wagner also mentioned that her MARITIME Act, which aims to address the Iranian threat at sea, has become law. This legislation will facilitate coordination with Middle East partners to protect sailors and important shipping routes in the region.

In conclusion, Congresswoman Ann Wagner emphasized the need for unity among Arab countries, Israel, and the United States in opposing the violent agenda of Iran and its proxies. She called for strong U.S. leadership, engagement with allies and partners, and planning for Gaza's future post-Hamas.