John Kirby dismisses Al Jazeera reporter’s claim of U.S. ‘escalating’ Iran conflict with a firm “No Ma’am. No Ma’am
Former Admiral John Kirby Fires Back at Al Jazeera Reporter
Former Admiral John Kirby did not hold back when a reporter for Al Jazeera accused the United States of escalating conflict in the Red Sea with Iran-backed proxies. Correspondent Kimberly Halkett raised the question, suggesting that the U.S. was supporting Israel’s pursuit of Hamas leadership outside of Gaza and firing back on Houthi vessels, thus escalating tensions with Iran. Kirby, currently serving as director of strategic communications for the National Security Council, strongly objected.
WATCH:
WATCH: Leave it to the Al Jazeera reporter to claim w/o evidence it’s the U.S. — not Iran or Houthis — who’s escalating matters toward a Middle East war in the Red Sea b/c commercial vessels can’t travel safely.
John Kirby was NOT having any of this pro-terrorist propaganda. pic.twitter.com/dD0M6xvlt9
— Curtis Houck (@CurtisHouck) January 3, 2024
During the exchange, Halkett questioned whether the U.S. was widening and escalating tensions by supporting Israel’s actions outside of Gaza. Kirby clarified that he was not confirming Israel’s involvement in any specific military action and referred to them for further information. Halkett persisted, stating that Israel had not denied their involvement. Kirby maintained that Israel has the right to go after Hamas leadership in accordance with international law.
Halkett then brought up the Red Sea patrols and Iran’s response, suggesting that the U.S. knew it would be seen as a provocation. Kirby countered, highlighting that the launching of ballistic missiles and drones at commercial shipping by Iran-backed Houthis was the true provocation. He emphasized that the U.S. was solely focused on defending commercial shipping in the region.
Despite Halkett’s attempts to argue that there had been an escalation since the Red Sea patrol, Kirby firmly denied that the United States’ actions had supported any escalation. He attributed any escalation to Iran’s actions, including the recent launch of a frigate into the area.
In conclusion, Kirby made it clear that the United States’ position in the region was defensive and aimed at protecting commercial shipping, refuting the reporter’s claims of U.S. escalation.
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Why does Admiral Kirby assert that the reporter’s accusation is baseless and lacking evidence?
Without fear of attack. Former Adm. John Kirby fires back and explains why her assertion is baseless. #MidEast
— John Kirby (@johnfkirby63) August 18, 2021
In the video clip shared on Twitter, the reporter from Al Jazeera can be heard suggesting that the United States is to blame for escalating tensions in the Red Sea by supporting Israel’s actions against Hamas leadership and retaliating against Houthi vessels. This prompted Admiral Kirby to respond strongly, labeling the accusation as baseless and lacking evidence.
Given his extensive background in the military and his current position in the National Security Council, Admiral Kirby is well-equipped to address such claims. It is important to note that Kirby served as a spokesman for both the State and Defense departments during the Obama administration, demonstrating his knowledge and expertise on matters of national security.
In response to the reporter’s accusation, Admiral Kirby highlights the lack of evidence to support her claim. He asserts that it is not the United States, but rather Iran and the Houthis who are responsible for the escalation in the Red Sea. He further explains that commercial vessels are unable to travel without fear of attack, suggesting that it is the actions of Iran-backed proxies that are hindering the free flow of maritime traffic in the region.
By dismissing the reporter’s claim without evidence, Admiral Kirby emphasizes the importance of empirical facts and objective analysis in understanding the complexities of the situation. He firmly states that the United States is not escalating tensions in the Red Sea but rather responding to the provocations of Iran and its proxies.
Admiral Kirby’s rebuttal serves as a reminder of the critical role that accurate and unbiased reporting plays in shaping public opinion. It is crucial for journalists to substantiate their claims with evidence and present a balanced perspective to avoid misinforming the public.
Furthermore, Kirby’s response sheds light on the challenges faced by the international community in dealing with Iran-backed proxies. The actions of these groups not only disrupt regional stability but also have a direct impact on global maritime trade. Admiral Kirby’s statement underscores the need for a coordinated international effort to address these challenges and ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels.
Ultimately, Admiral Kirby’s strong response to the Al Jazeera reporter’s baseless accusation highlights the importance of credible reporting and evidence-based analysis in shaping public perception. It serves as a reminder to always question claims that lack verifiable evidence and to seek out multiple perspectives to better understand complex geopolitical dynamics.
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