NPR’s Scott Simon speaks with Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.), ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, about the month-long war with Iran and related domestic politics.
Simon opens by noting the conflict has no end in sight, with more U.S. troops deploying and President Trump demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz by April 6 or face strikes on its power plants. The president also asserted talks with Iran were progressing, though Iranian officials deny any negotiations.
Before discussing Iran, Smith addresses the 40-day partial government shutdown. He explains the core dispute centers on immigration enforcement and the role of ICE. Democrats want reforms to curb what they view as unlawful and overly aggressive ICE actions, while acknowledging DHS houses many other agencies—TSA, the Coast Guard, and FEMA—that also need funding. Smith says Democrats repeatedly offered to fund those agencies while negotiations continued over ICE, and the Senate agreed. But House Speaker Mike Johnson refused to bring such a measure to the floor, Smith contends, because of deference to President Trump. Had it been voted on, Smith believes it would have passed with near-unanimous support and prevented the ongoing lapse.
Turning to Iran, Simon asks whether destroying Iran’s missile arsenal is a goal Smith would support. Smith says he would like Iran to lack ballistic missile capacity, but stresses the practical and strategic limits. Eliminating that capability militarily would be extraordinarily costly, likely trigger a full-scale Middle East war and global oil disruptions, and likely be impossible to accomplish completely. NPR reporting suggested the U.S. could only confirm about one-third of Iran’s missile arsenal destroyed, while even optimistic estimates acknowledge perhaps up to 75% might be achievable—but any remaining capacity, plus drones, would still pose threats. Smith warns that continued military action risks broader escalation, noting groups such as the Houthis have joined the conflict and launched strikes at Israel.
When asked the best way to end the war, Smith advocates stopping the fighting, establishing a ceasefire, and pursuing a negotiated settlement. He argues further military action is not meeting objectives and is increasing regional and global costs.
Simon thanks Rep. Smith for the interview; Smith expresses appreciation for the opportunity.