Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), released the following statement in response to United States strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities:

"Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons is a direct threat to the safety of the United States, our allies, and the stability of the Middle East. The regime has made its intentions clear by developing its nuclear program in secret, violating international agreements, and refusing transparency with global inspectors.

"At the same time, Iran has built and sustained a violent network of terrorist proxies across the region. The regime trains, funds, and commands Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and the Houthis in Yemen. These groups launch attacks on civilians, American military personnel, and our regional partners. Their actions are not spontaneous. They are orchestrated by a regime that embraces terrorism as a tool of statecraft.

"The United States has responded with precision and purpose. Our forces have taken necessary action to dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and disrupt its military capabilities. These operations reflect our determination to defend American lives, protect our partners, and hold the Iranian regime accountable. But let me be clear: Congress must play a decisive role in any decision involving the deployment of American troops into harm’s way.

"As a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I remain focused on ensuring our military and national security agencies have the tools they need to keep our country safe. We owe it to our servicemembers and the American people to approach this moment with bipartisan resolve and constitutional responsibility. Congress needs to be actively engaged to achieve these goals."