Congressman Herb Conaway Jr., MD Statement on the Joint Military Strikes in Iran

Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Herb Conaway Jr., MD released the following statement regarding the joint U.S.–Israeli military strikes against targets in Iran:

“There is much we do not know about the decision to conduct strikes against Iran taken by the President this morning. These actions have directly endangered the lives of American servicemembers and embassy personnel throughout the region. Without a clear strategy, without a full understanding of the risks to our servicemembers, and without assessing the danger of regional escalation, these strikes are reckless and risk yet another endless war in the Middle East.

I, like other Members of Congress and the American people, heard the Administration’s claims that the Iranian nuclear program had been destroyed. However, as a new member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am disappointed that this Administration has not been transparent about their actions in the region, especially the developments from today. The Iranian regime has proven to be brutal. It has repeatedly repressed its own people and killed thousands of protestors. Their malign activities continue to destabilize the region. However, as a veteran, especially as someone who served in the Medical Corps, I understand how serious the implications of any decision to take military action are on our men and women in uniform.

Congress alone has the power to declare war. This military action against Iran without congressional authorization is illegal. As soon as Congress reconvenes next week, we will vote on the bipartisan Khanna–Massie War Powers Resolution.

This resolution simply reaffirms the Constitution: if a President wants to take this nation to war with Iran, they must first come to Congress and make the case to the American people.”

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