Lake County Gazette

Mel Gurel, Vice Chairman of Vernon Township Republicans, expressed support for President Trump's recent military actions against Iran. She described the precision strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities as a necessary response to an escalating threat, emphasizing the concept of peace through strength. Gurel made her statement to the Lake County Gazette.

"Iran spent years building a nuclear infrastructure under the protection of diplomatic cover and a lack of accountability," said Gurel, Vice Chairwoman. "President Trump shattered that illusion by deploying U.S. airpower to dismantle the most critical components of Iran's weapons program. The mission delivered total success with zero casualties and showed that advanced planning and strong leadership could neutralize even the most fortified threats. It proved that the United States is capable of taking action that is both morally justified and strategically sound."

According to Fox News, the Trump administration executed successful strikes on three key Iranian nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. These actions were announced by President Trump on Truth Social and during a national address on June 21. The mission reportedly crippled Iran’s nuclear program and led to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Iran and Israel. This operation followed Trump's restructuring of the National Security Council, which included appointing Secretary of State Marco Rubio to several key roles.

In a June 23 post on Truth Social, President Trump said that both Israel and Iran approached him simultaneously with intentions for peace. He said, "The World, and the Middle East, are the real WINNERS! Both Nations will see tremendous LOVE, PEACE, AND PROSPERITY in their futures. They have so much to gain, and yet, so much to lose if they stray from the road of RIGHTEOUSNESS & TRUTH. The future for Israel & Iran is UNLIMITED, & filled with great PROMISE."

Gurel has been a resident of Buffalo Grove for eight years. Her involvement in local politics began shortly after March 2020 when COVID-19 lockdowns started and there was uncertainty about the duration of executive orders regarding masking and remote learning. After organizing a rally at Stevenson High School, she became involved with Vernon Township Republicans Organization (VTRO). She also co-chairs the Awake Illinois Vernon/Ela Townships chapter and serves as an appointed Precinct Committeewoman for Vernon 288. During this period, she homeschooled her son for third grade—a challenging yet rewarding experience—and considers helping turn Illinois red as her next significant goal.