Phoenix, Arizona – Saturday — Sen. Mark Kelly called on President Donald Trump to step down following U.S. military strikes on Iran, arguing that the administration launched major combat operations without congressional authorization.
In a public statement, Kelly criticized what he described as a lack of clear strategy and end goal, saying U.S. service members are being placed in harm’s way without sufficient explanation to the American people. He urged the Senate to return to Washington to debate the military action and fulfill its constitutional responsibilities.
“People who’ve never served are often the quickest to start dropping bombs without a plan for what’s next,” Kelly said, referencing his background as a former Navy pilot and astronaut.
Kelly warned that past military conflicts have resulted in prolonged engagements and heavy losses for American families, and said lawmakers must ensure the nation does not repeat those mistakes. He argued that Congress holds the authority to declare war and should formally review the administration’s actions.
Calls for impeachment have circulated among some lawmakers and activists in response to the strikes, though no formal articles have been introduced as of Saturday afternoon.
Separately, Reuters reported that Iran’s Defense Minister, Amir Nasirzadeh, was killed amid the escalating conflict. Iranian officials have not publicly detailed the circumstances, and U.S. officials have not issued independent confirmation.
The White House has defended the strikes as necessary to protect U.S. forces and respond to regional threats.
Further briefings from defense officials and congressional leaders are expected as developments continue.
