WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement in response to Israel’s strikes against Iran’s nuclear program:
“We do not yet know the full scope of Israel's military operation against Iran, the justification for striking on the eve of the Trump administration’s latest negotiating session with Tehran, or the likely consequences of these strikes. The Trump administration has made clear that Israel acted unilaterally against the Iranian regime’s nuclear sites and that the United States remains committed to a diplomatic solution.
“Tonight, my first concern is for our nation’s men and women stationed overseas and their families. I am glad the administration began evacuating military families and non-essential personnel from the Middle East earlier this week, and I urge them to do everything they can to protect American servicemembers and civilians alike from Iranian reprisals. I also pray for the safety of Israelis and civilians across the region who are in harm’s way tonight.
“I have long believed that the world cannot tolerate a nuclear-armed Iran and that Iran and its proxies pose a serious threat to American interests. I am deeply concerned by the IAEA Board of Governors’ determination earlier today that Iran has failed to comply with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and Iran’s defiant subsequent declaration of a new underground enrichment facility. Even so, tonight’s actions have the potential to lead to dangerous escalation and a full-scale regional war. I am following developments closely tonight and am urging restraint.
“Everyone’s goal must now be the prevention of a full-blown regional war. The Trump administration and our regional partners must work together to reduce the risks of escalation and work towards a path forward that provides safety and stability for the entire region.”
Senator Coons is ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.