Assemblyman John Lemondes is weighing in on recent U.S. military action in the Middle East, calling it a necessary step to protect national security and sending a message to America’s adversaries.
In a column titled “Peace Through Strength: A Veteran’s Perspective on Operation Epic Fury,” Lemondes — a combat veteran with nearly 30 years of service — reflected on what he described as a successful joint U.S. operation with Israeli forces targeting Iran’s leadership in Tehran.
According to Lemondes, reports following the February 28 operation indicated that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, and several senior regime officials were killed.
Lemondes said the conflict is personal for him, recalling multiple deployments to the Middle East during his military career and witnessing what he described as the suffering caused by oppressive governments and anti-American hostility.
He traced tensions between the United States and Iran back decades, including the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the U.S. Embassy hostage crisis, as well as attacks by Iran-linked groups such as Hezbollah that killed American service members in Lebanon.
In the piece, Lemondes argued that the U.S. has long sought to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons through sanctions and military deterrence. He described Operation Epic Fury as more than a show of force, calling it a critical move to protect the country.
“From my perspective as a veteran and former Army Colonel, Operation Epic Fury was not just another show of force; it was a clear signal that the U.S. will no longer bow to its enemies,” he wrote.
Lemondes also thanked President Donald Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and U.S. military personnel for their roles in the mission.
He closed the column by expressing support for American troops and emphasizing what he called the importance of strong leadership in maintaining peace through strength.
