During a “Fighting Oligarchy” rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Senator Bernie Sanders responded to President Donald Trump’s announcement of a military strike on Iran’s nuclear sites. Trump proclaimed the successful assault on three specific targets—Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan—via his Truth Social account. Upon hearing the news from his aide mid-speech, Sanders processed the information with visible concern, prompting chants from the crowd for an end to war. Trump’s declaration not only celebrated military success but also emphasized the need for peace. This announcement came amid rising tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
Reacting to Trump’s unilateral military action, Sanders stressed its constitutional implications, arguing that only Congress has the authority to declare war. He labeled the strike “alarming” and “grossly unconstitutional,” joining a bipartisan coalition in Congress that challenged Trump’s authority. A bipartisan War Powers Resolution was introduced in response to the ongoing conflict, aiming to prevent unauthorized military actions against Iran and calling for the immediate withdrawal of U.S. troops without congressional approval. Sanders reiterated that the American public desires peace over further military engagements.
Sanders passionately called for a focus on domestic issues rather than international conflicts, emphasizing the need to address problems within the U.S. He urged attendees to mobilize and fight for their vision of America, pointing out the need for collective action across the nation. His remarks underscored his long-standing stance against military involvement in foreign conflicts, particularly regarding Israel’s actions in the recent war against Iran.
Critically, Sanders emphasized that U.S. foreign policy should not be dictated by foreign leaders, specifically mentioning Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He stated that the U.S. should not engage in warfare at Netanyahu’s behest. This perspective aligns with Sanders’ long-held advocacy for a more restrained American foreign policy, especially in the context of the ongoing Gaza conflict and Israel’s military operations driven by retaliatory motives.
As part of his broader “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, Sanders has been rallying support in Republican-held areas across the nation, aiming to challenge and reshape political engagement on both sides of the aisle. The tour not only seeks to draw attention to economic inequalities but also serves as a platform to promote progressive policies while contesting Trump’s influence and military decisions. Notable Democratic figures, like Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Beto O’Rourke, have joined Sanders, emphasizing a united front amidst political divisions.
In his rally in Shreveport, Louisiana, and other locations, Sanders continues to advocate for democratic socialism and challenge the narratives set forth by the Republican establishment. His focus remains resolute on nurturing grassroots movements that demand accountability and transparency in governance, while advocating for policies that prioritize the needs of the American people over military ambitions abroad.
