1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

A war with Iran would risk trillions in U.S. taxpayer spending, sprawl regional chaos, and cost American lives—outcomes opposed by a clear majority of voters, who reject preemptive strikes absent direct aggression . Policymakers from both parties can chart a more prudent path: 1. Enforce red lines without boots on the ground: Reimpose and tighten sanctions on Iran’s nuclear and missile programs under the February “maximum pressure” memorandum, targeting oil exports and banking channels to zero out adversary revenues . 2. Leverage global partners as mediators: Encourage Russia to facilitate U.S.-Iran dialogue—Moscow’s own backing of direct talks underscores an off-ramp for conflict —and empower the EU to host follow-on negotiation rounds. 3. Prevent proxy escalation: Limit funding and logistical support for Iran-aligned groups, especially the Houthis in Yemen, whose maritime attacks prompted U.S. airstrikes earlier this spring . In 2015, Congress transcended partisan rancor to enact the JCPOA. Today’s stakes are no different. Conservatives abhor perpetual Middle East quagmires; progressives insist on diplomacy. Let us unite behind preventative diplomacy—saving lives, safeguarding funds, and reinforcing American credibility worldwide.