WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after President Donald Trump ordered the United States to launch strikes on Syria in response to the latest alleged chemical attack on civilians by Bashar al-Assad.
“The Assad regime and its backers must be held accountable for the use of chemical weapons. Tonight’s announcement of airstrikes in cooperation with the British and French military underscores the importance of partners and alliances in achieving shared objectives.
“But we should be clear: military strikes are no substitute for a real strategy.
"While we are still learning the details about these strikes, the Administration has not provided sufficient details about its military plans. The President has asserted authority under Article II of the Constitution for these strikes, but any sustained military action in Syria would require Congressional authorization. I expect the Trump Administration to promptly brief Congress on these strikes, their plan for Syria, including countering Russian and Iranian support for the regime, and any future use of military force."
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