WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement on President Trump's decision to launch ‘major combat operations’ in Iran:

“Against the clear wishes of the American people, President Trump has thrust our nation into a major war with Iran — one he never made a case for, never sought congressional authority for, and for which he has no endgame.

“Iran is weakened, but far from incapable. Iranian strikes on American bases have already begun, and we should expect more to follow on the battlefield, in the cyber domain, and through Iran's network of proxies across the region. Our forces and our allies must be fully prepared for a sustained and dangerous campaign.

“I salute the bravery of our servicemembers carrying out these operations, and I pray for their safety. But bravery does not constitute a strategy. Wars are unpredictable, and this administration has left the American people in the dark about the true costs, risks, and duration of this conflict.

“President Trump has chosen the path of war while diplomacy was still within reach. That is a decision with consequences that will outlast this presidency. I am calling for an immediate briefing and will use every authority available to conduct rigorous oversight of these operations.”