1. United States
2. Mo.
3. Letter

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran poses significant risks of escalation and potential U.S. involvement in another protracted war in the Middle East. As lawmakers correctly point out, entering such a conflict without Congressional approval would be a violation of the Constitution's separation of powers. Authorizing military force is solely the prerogative of Congress, not the President acting unilaterally. Moreover, Israel's military actions against Iran raise concerns over potential violations of international law and human rights. Funding or supporting these operations could implicate the United States as complicit in war crimes. It is imperative that we reassert Congressional oversight, uphold our democratic principles, and avoid entanglement in a destabilizing regional conflict driven by the agendas of other nations. Congress must take immediate action to prohibit any unauthorized use of military force against Iran and suspend military aid to Israel until their compliance with international law and respect for human rights can be assured. Protecting American lives, preserving our constitutional system of checks and balances, and promoting peace should be the priorities. The American people have no appetite for another endless, unaccountable war with catastrophic human and financial costs.