During a recent interview on CNN’s The Source with Kaitlan Collins, former Vice President Mike Pence faced probing questions about former President Donald Trump’s recent controversial statements concerning the conflict in the Middle East. In particular, Collins confronted Pence about Trump’s surprising praise for the Iran-backed militant group, Hezbollah, as “very smart,” prompting her to ask whether Trump truly comprehends the distinction between good and evil.
Pence, in response, swiftly condemned Hezbollah as unequivocally evil, emphasizing the critical need for leaders to speak in moral terms during these pivotal moments. While acknowledging that he had heard Trump use flattering language to describe authoritarian leaders during their time together, Pence stressed that such rhetoric is not appropriate, especially in the current tense geopolitical climate. He underscored the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the imminent threat faced by Israel and the necessity of unequivocally standing with the nation against its adversaries.
Expressing the need for a clear and unwavering message of solidarity with Israel, Pence reiterated his stance against Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as any entities aiming to harm the nation. With tensions at a critical juncture and the possibility of Israel taking significant military action, Pence emphasized the importance of taking a firm and resolute stance against those seeking to undermine the safety and security of the country.
The interview concluded with Collins thanking the former Vice President for his insights and time on the show.
COLLINS: Trump also praised the Iran-backed militant group, Hezbollah, as very smart. Do you think he understands the difference between good and evil?
PENCE: Hezbollah is not very smart. Hezbollah is evil. And again, we —
COLLINS: Does Trump understand that?
PENCE: We need leaders, in this country — we need leaders, in this country, who will speak in moral terms, in these moments.
I mean, this is — I must tell you, look, during our four years together, I heard him often use flattering terms, to speak about authoritarian leaders. But I think it’s out of place, always, but especially now.
This is a dire moment. And we are on the cusp, of literally Israel leaning in, moving in ground forces, and hunting down, and destroying those, who would seek to destroy Israel.
And, I think, in this moment, we’ve got to send a clear and unambiguous message that we stand with Israel. And we stand against Hamas, and we stand against Hezbollah, we stand against any who would oppose her.
COLLINS: Former Vice President, Mike Pence, thank you, for your time, tonight.
