Rep. Jimmy Panetta’s Statement on the Administration Ordering Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) released the following statement in response to President Donald J. Trump ordering the U.S. military to conduct strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan:

“The President’s use of the U.S. military to strike Iran’s nuclear sites was without authorization by the U.S. Congress under Article One, Section Eight, Clause 11 of the U.S. Constitution and without a demonstration of an immediate threat to the security of the United States to deploy forces as Commander in Chief under Article Two, Section Two, Clause One. 

“Furthermore, the President failed to provide a clear objective for these actions or a way to determine the success of the missions.  This type of unauthorized military action could easily lead to an escalation of the conflict and put many of the 40,000 U.S. service members in the Middle East at risk from retaliation by Iran and its proxies. 

“The President promised to end forever wars, but tonight’s actions could escalate tensions, destabilize the region, and drag the United States into an avoidable conflict.  Although Iran’s nuclear enrichment capabilities may now be degraded, its knowledge, geology, and desire to obtain nuclear weapons remain.  That is why the best way to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon, protect America and Israel, and provide stability and peace to the region is not through direct conflict, but through leadership, negotiation, and diplomacy.”

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