Statement on Nice, France Terrorist Attack

Statement

Once again Islamic extremism has influenced an attack against innocent civilians. We extend our condolences to the families of nearly 80 murdered victims in France. I've worked with the French military and know them to be strong allies. The attacks yesterday fell on France, but this is a worldwide threat, a problem that must be addressed by all. Our nation will have to lead if we want to defeat this global threat.

We need leaders who have experience in this region and who will be honest with our citizens. This war will not go away anytime soon. We need to prepare our citizens for more attacks to come while doing everything possible to prevent them. We are dealing with an ideology that we can't wish away, but must be defeated with a multifaceted offensive strategy. This will be a long fight and we can't take the pressure off of the enemy.

Our strategy must include the denial of any geography under the control of extremists from where they can organize attacks. There can be no safe havens for them. We need to target the leaders and terrorists where we find them using our air power and special forces.

Leadership must be shown in the region to galvanize the local nations to take the initiative on the ground. We defeated Al Qaida in Iraq in 2008 because we had Sunni Tribes committed to the fight. The sources of financing that fuel their operations need to be forcibly addressed just as we must undermine their internet recruiting operations.

Furthermore, we must have an honest dialogue about the enemy's ideology and motivations, so that we can counter the allure that drives them. The release of GTMO detainees who are committed to get back in the fight against our nation only increases the risk of American lives.

Our enemy can be defeated if we face the threat squarely and honestly so that we may execute a comprehensive strategy with perseverance and strength. Only then will we turn the tide.

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