Democrats Criticize Trump After Iran Strikes

Iran has launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against multiple bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq and has threatened “more crushing responses” if Washington carried out further strikes. 

Initially, nine rockets hit the sprawling Ain al-Asad airbase in the country’s west, the largest of the Iraqi military compounds where foreign troops are based. Also, at Erbil in the north – see the feature graphic. The attack came in three waves just after midnight, AFP reported. Iran swiftly claimed responsibility for the attack, with state TV saying it had launched “tens of missiles” on the base. 

Iranian sources are claiming that the operation has a name: “Operation Martyr Suileimani.” Iran’s airforce has reportedly been deployed. No confirmed details on injured/casualties – “working on initial battle damage assessments.” According to social media sources, the Pentagon has said that the Iranian missile attack resulted in casualties among Iraqis only. We are still, however, in the fog of war. 

Despite Washington’s assurances, several allies started to leave, raising questions over the future of a US-led mission to help the Iraqis fight the jihadist Islamic State group. Canada announced that some of its estimated 500 troops would withdraw to Kuwait. Several other countries, including Germany and Romania, announced plans to move forces. Trump said Tuesday he favored eventual withdrawal from Iraq but that under the wrong conditions, it would mean a strategic gift to Iran. 

President Trump has tweeted:

All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world, by far! I will be making a statement tomorrow morning.

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2020

Iran’s supreme leader said a “slap in the face” was delivered to the United States when the Islamic republic fired missiles at US troop bases in Iraq on Wednesday. Iranian Armed Forces say, “if the US retaliates, Iran’s response “will be stronger and more crushing.” 

So here is what the Democrats are saying: 

Joe Biden
offered prayers to troops before saying at a Philadelphia campaign event the “chaos that’s ensuing” in Iraq and Iran was “predictable,” per a pool report. “I just pray to God as [President Trump] goes through what’s happening … that he’s listening to his military commanders for the first time because so far that has not been the case,” he said. 

Bernie Sanders tweeted, The Trump administration doesn’t have a clue about what it is doing, but is creating a very dangerous world scenario. Let us never forget that the Constitution, which some of us actually believe and respect, says Congress has the responsibility for making war, not the President. 

Sen. Elizabeth Warren tweeted, “Tonight, my prayers are with our service members, our diplomats and personnel serving in Iraq, and their families — and all the people in the region. This is a reminder of why we need to de-escalate tension in the Middle East. The American people do not want a war with Iran.” Prior to the recent events, Warren questions the timing of Iran attack with impeachment trial looming. 

Southbend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, an Afghanistan war veteran, tweeted, “Tonight, Americans in Iraq are under fire. My prayers are with them, their loved ones, and their families.” 

Sen. Amy Klobuchar tweeted, “As we await the casualty assessment from tonight’s attacks, it is vital that we take this moment to consider any response. A full-blown war with Iran is not in the national security interest of the U.S. or allies in the region. We must work with our allies to de-escalate the situation while ensuring the safety of Americans in the region.” 

First off, read a short history of recent events and how we got here – $80 Million Bounty for Trump’s Head Announced on Iranian TV – the Reality for Iran and Iran Threatens Trump Properties – Will Democrats Stand and Defend the Office of the President? To this point, Trump has shown great restraint. The take out of a know terrorist leader Soleiman has been planned way in advance – some saying it was even more important (US General Petraeus) than the take out of Osama Bin Ladin.

Look at the way our potential Democrat leaders have responded. Critical of the President while our country is under attack. They appear to want the US to cut and run from a fight (de-escalate and do nothing), to satisfy their own political agendas. No one wants war with Iran – neither does Trump. But the US must stand firm and be the last bastion that fights to maintain and defend our peace and liberties, for not only the US but its allies. 

This night we must stand unified with Trump and our military personal – we call on the Democrats to do the same. There will be plenty of time for politics later. God speed and be safe to the service members in the region. The world is praying and counting on you. 

RFSO original article syndication source.