Figures across the US political spectrum have responded to President Donald Trump's joint attack with Israel on Iran, with Republicans largely expressing support and Democrats failing to provide a unified and robust response.
The attacks have reportedly killed at least 201 people, including over 80 at a school in southern Iran, many of them children.
Iran has launched retaliatory strikes on Israel and US bases in the region, located in countries such as Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Kuwait, raising fears of escalating conflict and regional violence.
A YouGov poll conducted on February 28 after the strikes indicated that 33% of US adults approved of the US attacking Iran, while 45% disapproved. Among Democrats and Independents, approval was just 10% and 21% respectively, whereas 68% of Republicans expressed support.
Reactions from prominent US elected representatives and political figures:
President Donald Trump: "A short time ago, the United States military started major combat operations in Iran. Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime."
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson: "Today, Iran is facing the severe consequences of its evil actions. The Trump Administration has made every effort to pursue peaceful and diplomatic solutions."
Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune: "Iran's nuclear ambitions and support for terror groups pose a clear threat to the US. I commend President Trump for taking action to thwart these threats."
Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries: "Trump failed to seek Congressional authorization before striking Iran. This decision has left American troops vulnerable to Iran's retaliatory actions."
Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer: "The administration has not provided Congress and the American people with critical details about the threat. Trump's actions are not a viable strategy."
Democratic Representative Rashida Tlaib: "The American people do not want a war with Iran. Trump is ignoring the majority of Americans who oppose wars."
Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: "This war is unlawful, unnecessary, and will be catastrophic. Trump walked away from negotiations and chose war instead."
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani: "Today's military strikes on Iran mark a catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression. Americans do not want this war."
Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders: "This Trump-Netanyahu war is unconstitutional and violates international law. Congress must pass a War Powers Resolution immediately."
Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen: "Trump is lying to the American people..."
Source: www.aljazeera.com