Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Jim Risch (R-Idaho), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks:

“Today solemnly marks the 18th year since the September 11th terror attacks. It is still difficult and painful to fathom these acts of evil, and Vicki and I mourn the lives that were extinguished that fateful day. We also honor the first responders and the brave men and women who gave their lives in defense of our great nation. We will never forget this tragedy in American history and we will not stop working to protect American lives and make the world safe for democracy. 

“I support the president’s efforts to responsibly end the war in Afghanistan in a manner that keeps Americans safe, however, despite repeated calls for a ceasefire, the Taliban continue to attack U.S. forces, our allies, and the Afghan people.  It is long past time for the Taliban to demonstrate they are serious about peace.”