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Thompson on U.S. Airstrikes in Syria

April 7, 2017

Washington – Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05)—a Vietnam veteran and Co-Chair of the Military Veterans Caucus—released the following statement on the President's launch of 59 Tomahawk missiles on a Syrian airfield.

"The use of chemical weapons is deplorable no matter who uses them or why. Bashar al-Assad actions against his own people is an atrocious violation of international law and an immoral act. He must be held accountable.

"Nonetheless, Congress did not authorize the President's airstrikes last night. Congress has a constitutional responsibility to debate and approve any use of military force. We cannot recklessly risk American lives or embroil our troops in another complicated, ongoing conflict in the region.

"As a combat-wounded veteran, I appreciate the gravity of a decision to authorize military force. This latest atrocity proves that Assad is dangerously unstable and should not be in power. The situation in Syria has been one of the most devastating crises in history, and Assad's attack this week proves matters will only get worse. The President cannot resolve this with one airstrike. Congress has a role to play in our future actions, as do our global allies. We must build an international coalition to coordinate humanitarian support and achieve a resolution to the conflict."

Thompson has previously expressed concerns about both Assad's violence towards civilians and Russia's support of his regime. He remains concerned by the escalating actions of Assad's regime, and continues to call for an international coalition to protect innocent lives.

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Issues:Defense