Kemp, Georgia leaders react to U.S. airstrikes on Iran

FILE PHOTO - Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and Speaker of the House Jon Burns (R-Newington) are among the state leaders speaking out in the wake of US military strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities. (Office of the Governor)

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp joined a chorus of state and federal leaders responding to the U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, praising the mission’s success while emphasizing coordination with law enforcement to guard against potential retaliation.

“Following yesterday’s successful mission to strike Iran’s nuclear weapon facilities, I joined my fellow governors from around the country today on a call with Homeland Security Secretary Noem to discuss any potential retaliation,” Kemp posted on social media. “We are coordinating with law enforcement on all levels as we closely monitor any possible threats. May God continue to bless our troops and first responders.”

The coordinated U.S. military operation, ordered by President Donald Trump, targeted key Iranian nuclear infrastructure in what the administration called a “decisive step” toward neutralizing the regime’s nuclear ambitions. The strikes have reignited debate among lawmakers over the use of military force without prior congressional approval.

Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) criticized the administration’s approach, warning of the risks of entering another Middle East conflict. “President Trump… has now entered another Middle East conflict. He has not sought congressional approval and has not sufficiently explained why this operation was necessary right now,” Warnock said in a statement. “This is war.”

Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-GA), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, offered support for U.S. troops but called for full transparency. “Congress must be promptly and fully briefed on tonight’s operation and consulted on the Administration’s strategy,” he stated.

On the other side of the aisle, Georgia’s Republican leaders expressed strong support for the mission and the president.

“Tonight, the President sent the world a clear message—the United States will never waver in our commitment to supporting Israel, our strongest ally in the Middle East,” House Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington) posted on X. “This is what peace through strength looks like.”

Senate Majority Leader Steve Gooch (R-Dahlonega) echoed the sentiment, writing, “We must never allow the evil regime of Iran to have nuclear weapons. I am praying for the safety of our brave Armed Services.”

From Washington, Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-Athens) and Rep. Mike Collins (R-Jackson) offered brief but fervent endorsements of the president’s decision. “God bless President Trump,” Clyde posted. “Peace through strength,” Collins added.

Meanwhile, Georgia Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II (D-Augusta) emphasized diplomacy in his response. “I am thankful for the safe return of all service members involved… I believe, like so many others, that diplomacy is the only way we can truly resolve this crisis.”

As tensions remain high in the region, Georgia leaders continue to monitor the global and domestic implications of the strikes, balancing support for military personnel with concerns over long-term strategy and security.ns safe.