In an appearance on CNN Tuesday morning, independent U.S. Sen. Angus King of Maine urged President Donald Trump to be cautious about responding to the attacks on Saudi oil facilities.
“Let’s take a deep breath. There’s not an emergency here. This isn’t an imminent threat to the homeland. There’s time to consider the facts, and then, to consult with our allies,” King said.
The president initially pointed a finger at Iran for the attacks on Saudi oil facilities, but, Monday, backed off that, saying he was waiting to learn more.
King said, if Iran is responsible, any response should be carefully considered.
“This is a decision that should be based on a lot of consultation with allies, and with advisers. That doesn’t seem to be taking place and that’s why my piece of advice No. 2 is: Let’s not do it on Twitter and off-the-cuff comments as you get onto the helicopter,” he said.
Trump had tweeted Sunday that the U.S. was “locked and loaded” to respond.
