by Met Middleson

June 16, 2025

Senator Bernie Sanders issued a forceful statement Monday following Israel’s military strikes on Iran, declaring, “Netanyahu started this war with a surprise unilateral attack against Iran, which has already killed hundreds of people and wounded many more.” Sanders said the strike was “specifically designed to sabotage American diplomatic efforts,” noting that Israel assassinated “the man overseeing Iran’s nuclear negotiating team, despite the fact that further talks with the United States were scheduled for Sunday.”

Calling the Israeli action a clear breach of global norms, Sanders stated, “Whatever you think of the corrupt and authoritarian Iranian regime, this attack clearly violates international law and the United Nations Charter.” He warned against any U.S. involvement, saying, “The United States must not be dragged into another of Netanyahu’s wars — not militarily or financially.” Citing constitutional limits, he added, “There can be no offensive use of military force — against Iran or any other country — without an explicit authorization from Congress. No such authorization exists, and any such involvement would be illegal.”

Sanders also sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally, calling him “a war criminal under indictment by the International Criminal Court.” He accused Israel of “prevent[ing] the U.N. and other aid groups from delivering desperately needed humanitarian aid to starving civilians” and said the latest attack on Iran was “just his latest violation of international law.” Sanders concluded, “Under his extremist government, Israel is increasingly becoming a rogue state and a pariah among nations. The United States must not be a part of this war.”