Washington is gearing up for a multi-pronged strategy to tackle surging oil prices and safeguard global shipping lanes, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Wednesday. The bold initiative comes amid escalating tensions, with the US launching targeted strikes to dismantle Iran’s missile stockpiles and naval capabilities.
The announcement follows a devastating terrorist attack in Austin, Texas, early Sunday morning. A gunman opened fire on innocent civilians gathered on West Sixth Street, killing two Americans and injuring 14 others. Austin police swiftly neutralized the shooter at the scene.
The FBI has classified the incident as a terrorist act and is leading the investigation. In response, a bipartisan group of US lawmakers fired off a urgent letter to top congressional leaders, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
‘Deliberation time is over,’ the letter declares. ‘The American people and the people of Texas demand an immigration policy that puts American safety and security first.’ Lawmakers argue that every day Congress fails to act endangers more lives.
The missive lays out four critical demands. First, full funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), described as the nation’s frontline defense. ‘Budget roadblocks and political gamesmanship that deprive DHS of vital resources are not negotiation tactics—they are failures of national security,’ they wrote.
Second, an immediate halt to all new H-1B visa issuances until a comprehensive audit of current holders is complete. ‘We need to know who is in this country, why they are here, and whether they pose a national security risk,’ the lawmakers stated.
Third, a broader moratorium on all immigration until proper vetting protocols are established. ‘This is not anti-immigrant; it’s pro-American,’ they emphasized, noting the lack of full accountability on who’s entering the country.
Finally, they call for redirecting federal resources to identify existing threats within US borders through cross-referencing immigration records, law enforcement databases, and intelligence reports.
The letter stresses that terrorists don’t care about political affiliations—we’re all targets. If Congress won’t act, lawmakers warn they will empower states to step in. ‘Texas will use every legal and operational tool available to protect our citizens, with or without federal assistance,’ it concludes.
Immigration and border security have long dominated US political discourse, with ongoing debates over DHS funding and the balance between federal authority and state action. The Austin attack is likely to intensify these discussions in the weeks ahead.