By Congresswoman Stephanie Bice
Over the weekend, President Trump authorized Operation Epic Fury, a joint combat operation conducted alongside our partner forces against the Iranian regime. This decision was not made lightly and was launched after numerous attempts by American leadership to seek negotiations with Iran. Ultimately, the Iranians refused to negotiate in good faith even when given clear and reasonable off-ramps.
For 47 years, the Iranian regime has funded terrorism across the globe, attacked United States citizens and assets in the region, destabilized the Middle East, and brutally oppressed its own people. Reports indicate Operation Epic Fury targeted senior Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Mohammad Pakpour, the Commander in Chief of the IRGC, Aziz Nasirzadeh, the Defense Minister, as well as heads of the military bureau, and Iran’s advanced weapons programs. These strikes also focused on eliminating Iran’s ballistic missile sites, drone programs, and Navy. Strength, when exercised responsibly, can prevent even greater conflict.
The Trump Administration undertook repeated efforts to seek a diplomatic solution, all of which were rejected by Iran. The Executive Branch also has the authority necessary to conduct these operations through Article II of the Constitution. Through the War Powers Resolution of 1973, President Trump has 60-90 days to conduct operations without Congressional authorization. President Trump also briefed the Gang of Eight, the top Republicans and Democrats from both the House and Senate alongside the members of the Intelligence committees, and notified Congress within 48 hours of the beginning of Operation Epic Fury. Put simply, he has the necessary authority to conduct this operation without a declaration of war from Congress, which hasn’t happened since World War II.
Unfortunately, there are reports of American servicemembers killed in action, with others wounded, some severely. I am praying for the families of those we lost, for the wounded, and all deployed personnel. The sacrifice of our men and women in uniform is never taken lightly, and I am forever grateful for their courage and commitment to defending our nation.
For years, the Iranian people have watched as their regime chanted “Death to America”, enabled terrorist proxies to attack free nations around the globe, threatened shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz, and even killed American citizens. They are victims of authoritarian leaders who have silenced, imprisoned, and killed those who dare to demand freedom. Now is the time for the people of Iran to stand up and reclaim their nation. I pray for a future Iran that is free, prosperous, and at peace.
If you are currently in the Middle East or know somebody who needs assistance, please contact your nearest United States Embassy or Consulate for the most up to date information. Americans abroad can call the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs 24 hours a day at +1-202-501-4444 from overseas or +1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada. I also strongly encourage enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates. The program link is here. http://mytravel.state.gov/s/step My office stands ready to assist any constituent in need.
