Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) released the following statement after President Trump ordered military strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities:

“President Trump’s decision to order direct military action in Iran without authorization from Congress violates the Constitution and continues a deeply troubling pattern of actions that undermine our system of government and our efforts to protect Americans at home and around the world.  The Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war, not the President.  It does so for a reason: to prevent any president from acting unilaterally, impulsively, or thoughtlessly when it comes to war or actions that can lead to it.

“I am grateful to learn that no U.S. service members were harmed during the bombing operation, but I am concerned that these direct attacks escalate hostilities and endanger our forces in the region as well as Americans around the world.

“The Trump administration must immediately and fully brief the Congress and answer questions from the people’s representatives.  The American people deserve transparency, accountability, and leadership that honors and protects our democratic system and our national security.”