Tammy Duckworth Questions Pentagon Nominee on Iran Strike Recommendations

Congressional Authority and War Powers

• 🏛️ Senator Duckworth emphasizes her commitment to Congress reasserting its responsibility under the War Powers Act.
• ⚠️ She ran for Congress specifically to ensure leaders fully consider the true costs of war, not just financially but in terms of troop sacrifices.
• 🎯 The goal of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon should be pursued through diplomatic means, as there was no imminent threat.

Military Recommendations and Policy

• ❓ Duckworth questions Vice Admiral Cooper, a nominee for CENTCOM commander, about CENTCOM's recommendations to the White House regarding congressional declaration of war and consultation prior to the Iran operation.
• 🤐 Cooper states that discussions regarding directions and orders are related to policy and best addressed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the White House, and that military recommendations are typically provided in a classified environment.
• 🎯 He affirms that CENTCOM's role is to provide a wide range of options to decision-makers and implement orders.

Endgame and Strategy in Iran

• 🗺️ Duckworth expresses alarm at the President's statements suggesting regime change as an endgame in Iran, drawing parallels to past Middle East conflicts.
• ❓ She asks Vice Admiral Cooper if he will commit to providing recommendations for an off-ramp from further military action without seeking regime change as an option, should he be confirmed.
• 🤝 Cooper states he would provide his best military advice based on policy direction given.

Support for American Citizens Abroad

• ✈️ Senator Duckworth inquires about CENTCOM's role in facilitating the safe evacuation of American citizens from dangerous regions if required.
• ✅ Admiral Cooper confirms that CENTCOM is always postured to support diplomatically ordered evacuations, citing recent examples.