The U.S. and Israel launched a stunning attack on Iran on Saturday, opening a new chapter in an increasingly tense relationship with the Middle East country. The Associated Press said President Donald Trump called on the Iranian public to “seize control of your destiny” by rising up against the Islamic leadership that has ruled the nation since 1979.
Pennsylvania Sens. Dave McCormick and John Fetterman, as well as U.S. Reps. Rob Bresnahan, 8th Congressional District, and Dan Meuser, 9th Congressional District, have expressed their thoughts on the attacks on social media.
U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick, R-Pa., discusses the government’s role in supporting artificial intelligence and innovation with Lehigh University President Joseph J. Helble on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, during Lehigh University’s Compelling Perspectives program at the school’s Packard Laboratory Room in Bethlehem. (April Gamiz/The Morning Call)
Sen. Dave McCormick, R-Pennsylvania, on X
“For decades, the Iranian regime has killed Americans, threatened Israel and our allies in the region with their ballistic missiles and nuclear ambitions, and butchered tens of thousands of its own people. They are the world’s number one sponsor of terror.
“The president has given the ayatollahs a chance for a deal, and they have rejected a path to peace and prosperity.
“I am praying for our brave troops and our steadfast allies who stand with us during this challenging and noble mission.”
U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., has more support from Republicans than from his own party. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pennsylvania, on X
“Operation Epic Fury.
“President Trump has been willing to do what’s right and necessary to produce real peace in the region.
“God bless the United States, our great military and Israel.”
Congressman Rob Bresnahan speaks during the groundbreaking of the Wyoming Ave. to Schooley Ave. Sanitary and Sewer Rehabilitation Project in Exeter on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026. (JASON ARDAN / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)
U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan, R-8, Dallas, on X
“We are praying for the safety of our troops deployed overseas and the protections of our allies.
“The Iranian regime has long destabilized the Middle East through terrorism, dangerous weapons programs, and attacks on our allies. These targeted strikes will deter further aggression and limit its ability to spread violence. The United States must protect our citizens and stand by our allies. While we do not seek conflict, we cannot allow a dangerous regime to act without consequence. I will continue working closely with the administration to ensure that our efforts advance lasting peace and genuine prosperity for the Iranian people, who have endured decades of oppression under this regime.”
U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Pa., speaks before President Donald Trump arrives at the Mount Airy Casino Resort in Mt. Pocono, Pa., Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025. (Matt Rourke/AP)
U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-9, Jackson Twp., on X
“We stand at the threshold of a historic turning point. For nearly five decades, Iran has pushed a dangerous agenda of Shia Islamic revolution, anti-Western hostility, harm across the region and beyond. Now, through resolute action by the United States and Israel, we are drawing a firm line, offering the Iranian people and the broader Middle East a genuine opportunity for freedom, stability, and peace.”
Meuser’s post goes on to list latest developments from the operation, dubbed Operation Epic Fury.
“The strikes were coordinated across multiple geographic commands, creating a synchronized assault designed to overwhelm Iran’s defensive systems.
“The campaign involves hundreds of targets and is being described as a sustained multi-day operation.
“U.S. forces introduced new capabilities during these strikes, including the first combat deployment of one-way attack drones.
“The operation has focused on high-value targets tied to the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps), including key naval assets and underground facilities believed to support Iran’s nuclear program.
“Tomahawk missiles were launched in the opening wave of strikes.
“According to a U.S. official, Iranian air defenses have been effectively neutralized.
“A senior U.S. official characterized Iran’s response so far as ineffective.”