|
|
Iraq
Policy Interactive Component ©
2003
|
STATEMENTS FROM "An Unneccessary War" by Stephen Walt &
John Mehrsheimer (Foreign Policy Magazine, Jan./Feb. 2003 issue) http://www.foreignpolicy.com/wwwboard/walts.html
Letter to President Bush, Sen. Daschle
and Rep. Hastert September/October 2002 Dear President Bush, Majority Leader Daschle and Speaker Hastert: We, the undersigned veterans of the Gulf War, seek to inject common sense into the debate over a possible U.S. war against Iraq by placing the debate in the context of safeguarding our liberty, constitutional values and our freedom. As veterans, we know firsthand the effects of war, and the meaning of sacrifice. The decision to go to war is a serious one which could have far reaching and unforeseen effects for Americans. To protect American troops, and American citizens, we seek the following goals: Congress must authorize an invasion of Iraq through a formal Declaration of War, as required by the U.S. Constitution. The Congressional and public debate should examine whether an invasion of Iraq would further destabilize the region, cause more terror attacks against the United States, distract us from the war against terror, or lead people to join anti-U.S. terrorist organizations. Because troops returning to battle may be exposed to many of the same dangers we faced in 1991, returning veterans must have full and immediate access to the Department of Veterans Affairs when they return home, including health care, readjustment counseling and disability benefits if needed. The Administration should make public information to justify its claim that Iraq poses a direct threat to the United States requiring an invasion. In keeping with separation of powers in our Constitution, we seek Congressional oversight of the conduct of any war. In keeping with our international law, any war with Iraq should include authorization from the United Nations Security Council. The U.S. should also seek and obtain broad assistance from other nations. Before sending Americans into combat, the U.S. government must make a full and complete accounting for all those missing in action in the Gulf War since August 2, 1990. Veterans |