Fellow Illinoisan,

We can’t let the Trump Administration start another reckless war in the Middle East.

Those who are beating the drums of war with Iran ignore the spiraling escalation likely to follow.  In fact, some of the same unrepentant architects of the disastrous war in Iraq - one that actually emboldened and empowered Iran - are the same people now egging on another Middle East war, this time with Iran.

Some even have the audacity to suggest the President can start this conflict without explicit approval from Congress. I might remind them that the Constitution is clear - it’s the American people who make the decision about going to war through their elected members of Congress, not the President.

DURBIN WARNS AGAINST ANOTHER RECKLESS WAR IN THE MIDDLE EAST

As one of 23 Senators who voted against the invasion of Iraq - a war which is now in its 17th year with heavy costs in American lives and taxpayers’ dollars - count me as a ‘no’ on the military confrontation with Iran. 

The Trump Administration should return to the only reasonable, smart, and effective option on the table for countering Iran - rejoin the nuclear agreement immediately and repair our strained relationship with our allies. 

War is not the answer. Take a deep breath, Mr. President.

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL)