South OC Times

Washington – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) has taken a stand in support of Gold Star father Steve Nikoui by sending a letter to the U.S. Capitol Police, urging for all charges against Nikoui to be dropped. This action comes after Nikoui was arrested by Capitol Police for speaking out about his fallen son, LCpl Kareem M. Nikoui, during President Biden's State of the Union Speech on March 7.

In the letter, Issa highlighted the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by service members and the need for acknowledgment of their families' grief. Issa stated, "Mr. Nikoui's arrest for emotionally expressing his grief and seeking acknowledgment for his son's sacrifice during the State of the Union – where he called out, 'Abbey Gate! Kareem Nikoui! Second Battalion, First Marines!'" Issa emphasized that Nikoui's actions were a plea for the recognition of the families of the 13 servicemembers who lost their lives in the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Issa's letter, featured in an exclusive piece from Townhall, emphasized the disconnect between the sacrifices of service members and the recognition they deserve. Issa further expressed, "What Mr. Nikoui voiced out loud was a cry for the acknowledgment of the loss endured by the families of the 13 who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country."

The full letter from Congressman Issa to the U.S. Capitol Police can be accessed for further details and context.