The Illinois congressman said he did not support the initial US and Israeli decision to strike Iran, arguing that Congress should have been consulted before military action began.

“Congress has the authority to take this country into war,” he said, adding that there should have been a debate involving lawmakers, the American public and US allies before military action was taken. He accused the administration of failing to clearly communicate its objectives or strategy.

Schneider said preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon remained essential, alongside addressing Tehran’s ballistic missile and drone programs, its regional activities and human rights record.

But he argued that any lasting solution would ultimately require diplomacy.