Target: John Thune, U.S. Senate Majority Leader
Goal: Prevent more presidential-ordered, non-approved military interventions.
Six American service members and at least 500 Iranians – including dozens of students at an all-girls’ school – have been killed in the wake of the United States and Israel’s coordinated surprise air attacks on Iran. The death toll is estimated to also include many people killed during retaliatory strikes Iran launched against eight nations and in attacks Israel launched against Lebanon. Upwards of a thousand people, again mostly civilians, have been injured…and counting. These numbers represent just the opening cost of a U.S.-led operation with ever-shifting justifications, little to no input from allies, and no Congressional authorization.
The potential start of a new Middle Eastern conflict could have wide-spread ramifications for Americans weary of conflict abroad and who were explicitly promised time and again an end to “forever wars” by the current administration. The risk of a broader-scale war breaking out and/or of terrorist retaliation is ever-present. The instability in the region could very likely spike prices on commodities deemed essential by many Americans already stressed by unaffordability. And the renegade approach – with no seeming long-term plan in mind – further fractures trust with global allies and with the American people. Meanwhile, the very politicians the people elected to represent their interests continue to cede their authority and their responsibilities.
Sign the petition below to demand America’s elected leaders take back their power on behalf of the people.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Senator Thune,
Hearings after the fact and votes most likely to go down in smoke will do little to restore the faith or confidence of the American people. Because Congress has given up the war powers it first implemented to prevent executive overreach and to give the people a voice, another billion-dollar war with no exit strategy could soon commence, human lives (including U.S. service members) have and will become collateral damage, instability and uncertainty will grow, and soaring gas prices and delayed air travel plans will be the least of it. Stop the political theater that claims you need approval for authority you already possess: the authority – and the immense responsibility – to debate and declare war. Reclaim that responsibility before far more damage is done.
Allies are already decrying the rapid decline of international law. The pope has called to “stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss” and for a return to moral and ethical guidance. Be that guiding hand…or continue to be the proverbial hand that pushes the drowning man further underwater.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Avash Media
