ILLINOIS — Reactions from Illinois lawmakers are pouring in following former President Donald Trump’s announcement that U.S. bombers launched strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran — a dramatic escalation that is drawing sharp lines between Republican support and Democratic concern across the state.
The airstrikes, carried out by B-2 bombers, targeted facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan, just days after Israel’s own military operation aimed at halting Iran’s nuclear weapons development.
Illinois Republicans Applaud ‘Peace Through Strength’
Several Republican members of Illinois’ congressional delegation issued swift statements supporting Trump’s decision, echoing long-held party views on deterrence and U.S.–Israel solidarity.
Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-Oakland) called the bombing a “great victory for the United States,” saying,
“President Trump understands that peace through strength keeps America, and the world, safe and secure.”
Congressman Mike Bost (R-Murphysboro) echoed similar sentiments on Facebook, stating that Trump acted on intelligence suggesting Iran was nearing nuclear capability.
“He showed the strength to ensure that never happens,” Bost said, backing the military strikes as a necessary national security measure.
Democratic Lawmakers Push Back on Unilateral Action
In contrast, Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois) condemned the strikes, warning they risk dragging the U.S. into another conflict in the Middle East without public debate or legal authority.
Duckworth, a combat veteran and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said:
“The Trump Administration illegally bombed Iran tonight, putting American troops and citizens at risk of retaliation… This should have been handled with diplomacy, not unilateral escalation.”
Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-Springfield) also voiced concern, arguing that decisions of war require Congressional approval:
“Iran is a sworn enemy of the U.S., but we must pursue aggressive diplomacy and consult Congress before engaging in military action.”
A Deepening Divide Over Foreign Policy
The contrasting responses reflect a larger national split in how U.S. foreign policy — especially toward Iran — is being shaped.
Republicans see the airstrikes as a necessary step to prevent nuclear proliferation and support Israeli defense efforts. Democrats warn that bypassing legislative checks could open the door to unchecked military intervention.
This incident comes amid broader discussions about America’s global role, military involvement, and the use of force in diplomatic stalemates.
For full lawmaker statements and updates, see the original report by St. Louis Public Radio.
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