Ricketts discusses Iran tensions, impact on Nebraska farmers
Senator says Middle East conflict is driving up input costs and weighs in on NATO comments
WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts addressed tensions involving Iran, U.S. foreign policy and the impact on farmers.
Ricketts said the conflict in the Middle East is already driving up costs for agricultural inputs, including fertilizer.
“What’s going on in the Middle East is driving up prices for some of these input costs,” Ricketts said, adding that farmers he spoke with at a recent Nebraska roundtable said many have already purchased fertilizer for the year.
He said resolving the conflict would involve reducing Iran’s military capabilities, including its missile, naval and nuclear programs, while also keeping key global shipping routes open.
“We need to keep traffic flowing through the Strait of Hormuz,” Ricketts said.
Ricketts also responded to questions about comments from former President Donald Trump on the possibility of the United States leaving NATO.
He said a president does not have the authority to unilaterally withdraw from NATO and described Trump’s remarks as part of a broader negotiating strategy.
Ricketts added the U.S. continues to maintain strong relationships with its allies and emphasized the importance of working together to address global threats