Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) expressed deep frustration with President Trump’s decision to strike Iranian nuclear sites, saying the administration ignored diplomatic options and bypassed Congress.
Speaking shortly after the attack was confirmed, Merkley said the president failed to use the time he had to consult lawmakers or push for negotiations.
“There was great frustration and disappointment that President Trump had not utilized the two weeks to conduct consultations with Congress,” Merkley said. “There was also space for diplomacy.”
He pointed to intelligence reports suggesting Iran had not made a final decision to develop nuclear weapons. That, he argued, was a reason to hold off on military action.
“Our own intelligence showed Iran hadn’t moved to weaponization,” he said. “The Israeli foreign minister even stated their nuclear progress had been set back by two to three years already.”
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Merkley suggested the strike was premature. He said Trump had alternatives that were overlooked.
“There was plenty of room to continue the strategy of diplomacy,” he added.
As lawmakers debate the strike’s legality, critics say Congress was ignored. Backers argue the president acted within his authority.
The White House has not directly responded to Merkley’s comments.
While some lawmakers back the strike, others echo Merkley’s worries over oversight and future fallout.
Whether the strike leads to more conflict or a return to talks remains unclear. But the divide in Washington is growing.
