Olszewski Issues Statement on US-Israel Attacks on Iran

(Washington, DC) – Maryland Congressman Johnny Olszewski issued the following statement on coordinated American-Israeli military strikes in Iran:

“President Trump pledged to avoid wars. His actions today may instead begin one.

Iran is led by a brutal and oppressive regime that can never be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon. Our commitment to peace and democracy in Iran as well as the freedom of its people is unwavering.

Military action can be justified, but President Trump has an obligation to make the argument for such action to the Congress and the American people.  Instead, President Trump expects a blind trust he has not earned. 

Once again, Trump has failed to make an argument for military strikes, or to identify an imminent threat from Iran. Once again, he has failed to explain the objective, the strategy, the risks, what comes next, and – most importantly – how this benefits America. As a result, there are American troops and civilians in harm’s way. I pray for their safety.

Americans who are being crushed by higher costs at home overwhelmingly oppose what could become another “forever war.” They have every right to demand a say before this Administration recklessly drags us into another costly, ill-defined conflict.

Our system requires checks and balances. Congress must act now to reclaim its constitutional power to authorize military force.”