Hoyer Statement on Strikes Against Iran

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after the United States carried out strikes against Iran and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in an Israeli air strike:
 

“Today’s attack on Iran was an act of war. Its purported purpose, to stop Khamenei’s fanatical regime from committing further acts of terror, is defensible. Donald Trump’s unilateral, unconstitutional decision to go to war without congressional approval is not.
 
“The Constitution is clear: the decision to declare war is not and should not be in a single person’s hands. That is especially true of a President who has so frequently demonstrated his willingness to use deadly force even when other options are available.
 
“Congress has war powers for a reason. We must exercise them and constrain the President. If we do not, we cede our authority under Article I, Section 8.
 
“The Trump Administration has yet to share any coherent plan to ensure Khamenei isn’t replaced by yet another radical terrorist dictator. Brute force alone cannot overcome the Iranian threat and bring stability to the region. We replaced a regime in Iraq at a great cost of lives and treasure.
 
“Trump promised America ‘no new wars.’ Now, contrary to the Constitution’s constraints, he has brought us to the brink of another one. I pray for the safety of our men and women in uniform. Congress must act.”