WASHINGTON, DC — Reports this week indicate that President Trump is considering major, sustained U.S. military action against Iran. The administration has accelerated the deployment of substantial military assets to the region, including two aircraft carrier groups, dozens of naval vessels, and hundreds of aircraft.

In response, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today urged the administration to carefully weigh the full consequences of military action before proceeding. Senator Reed stated:

“A preemptive attack against Iran at this time would be a strategic misstep, and I am concerned that such recklessness could spark an uncontrolled conflict. Military strikes on Iran would risk igniting a wider regional war, endangering American forces across the Middle East, and destabilizing global markets in ways that would harm everyday Americans. Despite demands from myself and others, I have seen no credible proposal from the administration regarding the strategic objectives of military action against Iran, the logistics of such an operation, nor what a ‘day after’ plan would look like.

“The American people do not want another costly war, particularly when viable economic and diplomatic tools remain available to achieve our objectives without putting American lives at risk. Further, Congress alone holds the power to authorize war, yet the administration has failed to engage with Congress during this latest military build-up.

“It is easy to start a war; finishing one is much harder. Before any military action is considered, President Trump must come before the American people, explain why any conflict would be necessary, be honest about the risks and costs, and present a clear strategy with a defined endgame.”