President Barack Obama addressed the nation today about the attempted bombing of an airliner bound for Detroit on Christmas day — and took the opportunity to express his support for the protesters in Iran.
“We will not rest until we find all who were involved and hold them accountable,” Obama said. “This was a serious reminder of the dangers that we face.”
In response, Obama said he directed stepped up security measures and the addition of more air marshals on international flights.
Obama also said he has ordered two reviews of airport security. One will focus on the watch list system and why Farouk Abdulmutallab, the alleged would-be bomber, was not on it. The second will focus on airport screening and how explosives slipped past security.
The president sought to reassure the public that his national security team is taking steps to disrupt, dismantle and defeat terrorists. He asked the American people to remain both vigilant and confident.
“As a nation we will do everything in our power to protect our country,” he said. “As Americans we will never give into fear or division. We will be guided by our hopes, our unity and our deeply held values. That’s who we are.”
Obama also strongly condemned the oppressive tactics the Iranian regime is using to quell protests of the country’s June elections, saying that fear and tyranny will not dampen their aspirations for democracy. He asked for the immediate release of those who have been unjustly detained.
Check out the speech below:
