Carter Center Statement on the War in Iran

President Trump’s unilateral decision to launch a war of choice with Iran is the latest example of unchecked executive overreach. For the second time this year, the United States has used military force without the consent of Congress and without making a clear case to the American people.

In just a few days, more than a thousand people have lost their lives, an entire region has been destabilized, and the world faces yet another protracted conflict.

Diplomacy cannot be deployed as quickly as bombs. But history has taught us that the consequences of war can wear on for years, even decades.

The Carter Center has worked in the Middle East for more than 40 years, and we have seen firsthand that conflict only exacerbates longstanding regional issues. We urge the U.S., Israel, and Iran to protect civilians, respect international laws, and work toward a diplomatic resolution. Otherwise, they risk ensnaring the Iranian people, the American people, and the entire world in yet another war with no end in sight.

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Contact: media@cartercenter.org

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The Carter Center

Waging Peace. Fighting Disease. Building Hope.
A not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center has helped to improve life for people in over 90 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy, human rights, and economic opportunity; preventing diseases; and improving mental health care. The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide.