Articles
Statement of Congressman Richard E. Neal (D-MASS) on Co-Sponsorship of Resolution Requiring Congressional Approval Prior to the Use of Military Force in Iran
Washington, DC,
January 18, 2007
From: Tranghese, William FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- January 18, 2007 The following is a statement by Congressman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) in support of H.J. Res. 14, a joint resolution introduced by Congressman Walter Jones (R-NC) concerning the use of military force by the United States against Iran. "In January 2002, I voted against authorizing the use of military force in Iraq. I raised a number of concerns about a pre-emptive war including the cost in lives, the lack of a connection between Saddam Hussein and 9/11, and the fact that Iraq was not an imminent threat to the United States. It was a responsibility I took very seriously. And four years later, I believe it was the most important vote I have cast as a Member of Congress. As of today, more than 3,025 brave and heroic Americans have been killed in Iraq, 45 alone from Massachusetts. Over 22,000 troops have been wounded in action. The war is now costing taxpayers $8 billion a month. For months, the American people, the troops, the generals, Democrats, Republicans and Independents have all expressed their concerns about a surge in Iraq. Yet despite these objections, President Bush announced last week that he was going to escalate the war in Iraq. But it's not the President's words that concern me today it's his actions. As we gather here today, the USS John Stennis will soon join the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in the Persian Gulf. Significantly, their strike groups that include eight additional ships and nine air squadron will accompany these carriers. A Patriot missile battalion is now headed toward the region. We have detained Iranian officials inside Iraq. Some reports even suggest that clandestine activities are already underway in Iran. In 2002, Americans were warned about mushroom clouds. Now there is talk of "an accelerating threat." Four years ago, Iraq was hit with "Shock and Awe." Today, Iran faces "meaningful consequences." Mr. President, we have been here before. I join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle today with one simple message. We are not going to let this administration make the same mistake twice. I am a co-sponsor of this resolution by my friend Walter Jones because it is the right thing to do. Members of Congress don't serve under the President, we serve with the President. And the Constitution makes it clear that it is the Congress, not the President that has the authority to approve the use of military force. This resolution is clear, concise and unambiguous. It reflects the views of Mr. Madison, Mr. Hamilton and Mr. Jefferson. It enjoys bi-partisan support in the House of Representatives. I believe it will have the support of the majority of the American people. And it will help restore our global standing. It simply says, that barring an attack, that President Bush must consult with Congress to receive specific authorization prior to the use of military force against Iran. Given our recent history, and with the current military build-up in the Gulf, I believe this resolution is reasonable, timely and justified. History tells us that threats and acts of provocation do not lead to safety or stability. That is why I agree with the Baker-Hamilton Commission's approach of constructive engagement. I support their call for a new diplomatic offensive to build international consensus for stability in the region. I believe there should be a regional conference, that includes Iran, to help bring peace and stability to the Middle East. And like the Baker-Hamilton recommendations, I agree that Iran's nuclear program should continue to be dealt with by the Permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and Germany. Having been deeply involved in the peace process in Northern Ireland, I know the only way to end conflict in the world is through engagement, not violence. We should apply that successful model of conflict resolution in the Middle East. And we should thank our friend Walter Jones for the courage and leadership he has shown today in introducing this important resolution. ENDS |