The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on December 31, 2024, to assess the State Department’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, with a particular focus on recent events in Israel and the implications for American citizens abroad. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the State Department's response to crises and its handling of international relations.

The session opened with a stark reminder of the tragic incident in Israel, where over 1,200 lives were lost. A committee member criticized the State Department for its perceived inaction in rescuing Americans left behind during this crisis. The member recounted personal experiences of conducting rescues on October 11, successfully evacuating 255 Americans from various locations, including Nazareth and Haifa, before the State Department initiated any formal rescue efforts. This pointed to a broader issue of governmental responsiveness during emergencies.

The discussion then shifted to the State Department's handling of Iran, with accusations that the current administration has allowed Iran to strengthen its position significantly. A committee member cited statistics from the Energy Information Agency, noting that Iran's petroleum exports reached $144 billion in the first three years of the current administration, which was $100 billion more than during the previous administration's two years. This data was presented to underscore concerns about the administration's foreign policy and its impact on regional stability.

The meeting concluded with a call for accountability and a reassessment of the strategies employed in both Afghanistan and Iran. The committee emphasized the need for a more effective approach to ensure the safety of American citizens abroad and to address the growing influence of adversarial regimes. The discussions underscored the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and the urgent need for a coherent strategy moving forward.