Progressive House Democrats, collectively known as the ‘Squad,’ have strongly criticized Israel’s recent military strikes on Iran, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of acting as a ‘war criminal.’ The attacks, which the Israeli government described as preemptive, have ignited a debate over regional stability and the United States’ role in the Middle East. Members of the Squad, already vocal in their opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza, argue that Netanyahu’s aggressive maneuvers risk dragging the U.S. into a larger conflict and undermine critical diplomatic efforts with Iran.
Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa., condemned the strikes on X, stating that the actions were a dangerous escalation that could lead to an endless regional war. She emphasized that any politician supporting Netanyahu is betraying the American public. Similarly, Reps. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., and Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., warned that the Israeli government’s actions could lead to a U.S.-led war with Iran. Tlaib accused the Netanyahu government of being a ‘rogue genocidal regime,’ while Omar highlighted the strategic confidence Israel has in its alliance with the U.S.
Washington and Tehran have been working on a new nuclear deal intended to curb Iran’s uranium enrichment capabilities. However, Democrats are skeptical that Israel’s strikes will not derail these negotiations. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., suggested during a segment on ‘Morning Joe’ that Israel’s actions appeared to be an attempt to sabotage ongoing talks with Iran. ‘Our preferred pathway here to keep Iran from getting a nuclear weapon is diplomacy,’ he noted, underscoring the risks of military escalation over peaceful negotiations.
U.S. officials have been urging Iran not to retaliate against Israel’s multi-strike operation, which the Israeli government insists is a preemptive measure to counter perceived threats. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump, who is reportedly close to taking office, has expressed that Iran now has a ‘second chance’ to participate in talks after the strikes. However, the Squad remains focused on ensuring that American support for Israel does not lead to an unwarranted military conflict in the region.