Washington, March 1 (NationPress) Prominent Republican legislators in the United States expressed their approval upon hearing the news of the demise of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, while also endorsing “Operation Epic Fury”, a collaborative military initiative between the US and Israel aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear capabilities.

Congressman Mike Lawler, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, remarked that Khamenei’s reign “has officially come to a close.”

“For decades, Ayatollah Khamenei has overseen a regime that has consistently shouted ‘Death to America,’ armed and supported militias responsible for the deaths of American soldiers, targeted our allies such as Israel, and brutally suppressed the rights of Iranians—particularly women and young girls—who have sought fundamental freedoms and human rights,” Lawler stated.

“The world is a safer place with his passing. We now have an opportunity for enduring peace in the Middle East,” he added.

Congresswoman Ann Wagner characterized Khamenei’s leadership as a “regime of terror that has caused immense suffering and torn families apart worldwide.” She expressed that “the Israeli strikes that resulted in the elimination of the Ayatollah and many of his top officials mark a definitive and necessary end to this ruthless reign of terror.”

She further stated: “The Iranian populace can now determine their own future.”

Congressman Gabe Evans emphasized, “Operation Epic Fury represents a crucial action to neutralize Iran’s nuclear weapons capabilities, mitigate imminent threats to the United States and our allies, and safeguard our fundamental national security interests.”

“For 47 years, the Iranian regime has instilled fear in its own citizens and has backed terrorist organizations that have targeted Americans and our allies,” he noted, sharing his hopes for the safety of every courageous American service member involved in this mission.

Rep. Chris Smith stated, “For far too long, Iran has held the global community hostage with its nuclear threats and state-sponsored terrorism.” He contended that “all diplomatic efforts to secure peace with the Iranian dictatorship have been exhausted.”

“President Trump is a man of his word. He vowed military action if Iran did not promptly cease its nuclear weapons development and stop its violent suppression of pro-democracy protests,” Smith asserted.

Congressman Jeff Van Drew described this moment as “the long-awaited vision of peace in the Middle East finally coming into view.” He noted how Americans, Israelis, Saudis, and other Gulf nations are “standing united as never before.”

The US Central Command reported: “In the wake of the initial wave of strikes from the US and its partners, CENTCOM forces effectively defended against hundreds of Iranian missile and drone attacks. There have been no reports of American casualties or combat-related injuries.”

Congressman Pete Sessions commented, “Operation Epic Fury is a significant and commendable exhibition of American power.” He added that “threats to our nation, our national security, and our allies will not go unanswered.”

For decades, Iran has faced stringent US sanctions due to its nuclear ambitions and support for militant factions throughout the Middle East. Tensions have consistently escalated due to Tehran’s activities related to uranium enrichment and its ballistic missile program.