San Diego, CA. – Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) released the following statement after the U.S. joined an unannounced large-scale military operation in Iran last night.

“On behalf of my family, and our entire San Diego community — home to a proud military presence that plays a critical role in our national defense — we wish our troops success and safety as they embark on this dangerous mission.

“Like many Americans, I did not see an imminent threat to the United States that required immediate military action. This makes me deeply concerned about the risk of American lives being lost in someone else’s war. We owe our servicemembers clear objectives and a defined endgame.

“Before our nation becomes further engaged in another burdensome conflict, Congress should be briefed as to whether this attack was justified and how we go forward. The Constitution gives Congress the authority to declare war, and that responsibility is not optional. Following a full briefing, the War Powers Resolution I’ve supported must be taken up for a vote immediately to ensure that Congress fully exercises its constitutional authority to declare war.

“23 years ago, President George W. Bush sought authorization from Congress, and the United Nations, before invading Iraq in 2003. He received overwhelming support from the House and Senate, showing our national resolve and unity. In this case, there has been no vote in Congress authorizing military action, no clear threat that requires unilateral action, and no broad international coalition assembled. We appear to be moving ahead without support from our allies or a clear consensus. This is unwise and dangerous.

“While we wage another war abroad, we continue to neglect our challenges at home. Measles is reemerging in parts of our country. We are running a $2 trillion annual deficit. Families are dealing with a skyrocketing affordability crisis, including the widespread loss of health care. And the Department of Homeland Security is shut down, disrupting vital agencies such as FEMA, TSA, and the Coast Guard. This already affects the livelihoods of vital employees, as well as our disaster response, aviation security, maritime safety, and cybersecurity. We must urgently address these responsibilities at home, even as we consider actions abroad. Fighting a war overseas, while ignoring the challenges Americans face, will only make us a weaker nation.”

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