Congresswoman Barbara Lee Releases Statement on Attack on U.S. Military Base in Jordan
Washington, DC – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-12) released the following statement on the attack on U.S. servicemembers in Northeastern Jordan near the Syrian border over the weekend:
“I am heartbroken by the loss of the three American servicemembers killed in Jordan. I send my deepest condolences to the loved ones of these courageous individuals. My father was a veteran. He served in World War II and the Korean War. I know firsthand the sacrifices our servicemembers and their families make. No one deserves to receive the call that these families received this past weekend.
“These attacks make clear that Iran is taking advantage of the chaos triggered by the Oct. 7th attacks. The war in Gaza has created a firestorm in the Middle East. We must reject the calls from some in Washington to increase the fighting. The path to peace and security is not through war - we must change course. And should President Biden seek expansive military retaliation to the attacks, he must come to Congress.
“The path forward to peace and security throughout the region is dependent on a cessation of hostilities in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and a return to diplomacy. We saw the efficacy of this in November’s brief pause in hostilities. I urge a redoubling of efforts to achieve rapid de-escalation through a permanent ceasefire and robust, regional engagement that includes international humanitarian organizations.”