Republican Rep. Sheri Biggs (R-S.C.) said Monday that the United States must “go to have to force their hand” regarding Iran following a recent military operation in the Strait of Hormuz where U.S. forces seized an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel.
Biggs defended President Donald Trump’s handling of escalating tensions with Iran, stating it demonstrated restraint and resolve. She noted that repeated warnings were issued before U.S. forces disabled the vessel, emphasizing efforts to avoid unnecessary loss of life while protecting American interests.
“The Democrats aren’t going to be happy no matter what we do,” Biggs said. “But the bottom line is we have to protect our homeland.”
The incident occurs amid a broader standoff between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its activities in the vital shipping corridor, which handles roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.
Biggs stressed that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains the central issue. “As long as the Iranians have an opportunity to have nuclear weapons, that is not going to happen,” she said, referring to the goal of ensuring American safety.
She credited Trump’s “peace through strength” approach, arguing the president has combined military pressure with economic measures to push Iran toward negotiations. “He’s not just using the military; he’s using other options to try to force them to the table,” Biggs stated.
Despite recent talk of renewed negotiations, Biggs expressed skepticism about Tehran’s intentions, citing a long history of stalled or failed talks. “Iran can say what they want, but the bottom line is we’ll see through their actions,” she said.
Iran has warned it could retaliate following the ship seizure, raising concerns about further instability in the region and potential global energy price increases. The fragile ceasefire in the area is under strain as both sides accuse each other of violations.
Biggs reiterated her support for the administration’s readiness to escalate if necessary. “I know that the president is prepared to take the next step, and I fully support what he’s doing to protect our citizens,” she said.
As tensions continue to rise, Biggs urged the United States to remain firm, asserting that only decisive action will bring Iran to the negotiating table and safeguard American interests at home and abroad.
