WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement after Iran launched retaliatory targeted attacks on a U.S. military base in Qatar: 

“I condemn Iran’s missile launches targeting U.S. forces in Qatar and am thankful our troops are safe and unharmed. In addition to endangering U.S. forces, these strikes put at risk millions of civilians in Doha. This retaliation would never have taken place if President Trump had not been led into this conflict by Prime Minister Netanyahu. It is clear that Netanyahu’s goals in Iran go well beyond Iran’s nuclear program—clearly evidenced by intentionally bombing universities, television broadcasters, and natural gas sites. Netanyahu wants regime change. It raises serious questions about President Trump’s motivation for dropping bombs without first seeking the support of Congress, as required by the Constitution.  

“I strongly support Senator Kaine’s War Powers Resolution, which permits U.S. forces to continue defending Israel from attacks by Iran, while enforcing the President’s constitutional obligation to seek Congressional authorization before launching a war with Iran.”  

Earlier this week, Senator Welch released a statement condemning President Trump’s decision to enter a war with Iran. Senator Welch also shared a video voicing his opposition to taking action in the conflict between Israel and Iran, and urged Senators of both parties to strongly oppose allowing Netanyahu to pull the U.S. into yet another war in the Middle East. 

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