Takai and Gallego Lead Letter Opposing U.S. Escalation in Iraq

Statement

Today, Congressman Mark Takai (HI-01) and Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-07) released the following statements after sending a letter urging President Obama to reject calls for a substantial American ground combat commitment in Iraq:

"I have repeatedly asked for limits on American commitment to the conflict in Iraq against ISIL," said Congressman Mark Takai. "Yet, ten months after operations in Iraq resumed, we find ourselves consistently expanding our presence in another open-ended conflict with no clear end game. Before we commit any additional resources to the Middle East, there needs to be clarity as to the role the United States will be playing. It is time for the White House and Congress to have a discussion on how to best use our military resources."

"I urge President Obama to reject calls to increase our role and the involvement of American combat troops in Iraq. Having fought in the Iraq war I fully recognize the threat that ISIL poses to the region and the world. However, I believe we cannot fight the Iraqi military's battles for them," said Congressman Ruben Gallego. He added, "We've been here before, and despite our engagement and investment, we find ourselves here again. As Secretary Carter said recently, until the Iraqi army demonstrates the commitment, and "will to fight" for their people, peace and stability, any gains achieved by American military troops would be unsustainable. Sending U.S. military ground troops is not the solution, it's time for the Iraqi's to lead."

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