On Monday, January 6, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement regarding impeachment and the killing of Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani:

“The President serves as the commander-and-chief of the United States military, but he is not above the law. He does not have the authority to declare war. The Constitution grants that authority to Congress. Although the White House may have justified using military action to kill Mr. Soleimani – identifying him as an imminent threat, his death could cause dire consequences for the United States, our allies, Iran, and Iraq where the killing took place. Before additional military action is taken, the President must consider these possible consequences and the safety of the people he serves.

“The President’s actions affect all Americans. The President, his administration, and Members of Congress can travel with some level of confidence, relying on the strength and protection of dedicated security. In the wake of this international dilemma, we must consider Americans who traverse not just our country but nations abroad without such protection. I am concerned that a lone wolf may inflict harm upon them. I am concerned that flames of hate that are not easily extinguished may be ignited. I am concerned a pattern of hateful, violent attacks on innocent people will be initiated in efforts to avenge the killing of this Iranian leader. I am concerned for our troops and their families who may be fearfully awaiting the news of whether they may be summoned for battle. I am concerned that the President will do something that will create greater problems than he anticipates.

“Questions of war or peace must be taken seriously. This is a time of uncertainty for our Nation. War is a possibility. This week, I will vote in support of the war powers resolution that will be presented to Members of the House. This resolution affirms the authority to declare war granted solely to Congress by the Constitution. I am voting for this resolution because I want us to take the high road to peace, not the low road to war.

“While this is a time of uncertainty and turbulence for America, this is not a time to abandon the lingering task Congress faces regarding the impeached President. The House of Representatives must send the articles of impeachment to the Senate for a fair – not fake – impeachment trial. Congress must show that we can not only address our foreign affairs as they relate to Iran but also that we can correct our domestic affairs as they relate to the impeachment of President Donald Trump.”