A New Policy Statement - Israel-U.S. War on Iran
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 28, 2026
A New Policy, co-founded by former U.S. officials Tariq Habash and Josh Paul, today released the following statement
This is not our war – it is a war of choice, a choice made first in Tel Aviv, and then pressed upon Washington through a corrupted American politics that places the desires of the Israeli Government ahead of those of the American people, and places our servicemembers in harm’s way for the sake of a foreign nation.
The implications of the start of this Israeli-American war on Iran are already clear:
More suffering and loss for people across a region who have already faced so much tragedy.
A complete collapse of what remained of the rules-based international order, in favor of a might-is-right world that carries immeasurable dangers for all.
A continued reliance on military power, increasing the likelihood of conflict around the world.
Possible fragmentation of Iran into a chaos that will spin off new problems for the region and the world.
Further entrenchment of an unpopular Israeli military hegemony in the Middle East that will increase destabilization risk in the region.
A war that will increase the disillusionment of the American people as regards our own politics, our own rule of law, and our own democracy.
Modern warfare happens at the speed of physics, but its ramifications unfold only at the speed of biology. Decisions that are premised on overwhelming military mismatches can appeal to decisionmakers who are blinded by the appeal of victory – of power. But it is only years, or decades, later, when we look back, that we can understand the true implications of the forces being unleashed.
Congress must return to session and take the overdue vote under the War Powers Act to oppose these illegal hostilities. We need an American foreign policy that serves the American people. Another war in the Middle East might serve Israel’s goals, but it is not in our national interest.
* * *
Contact:
About A New Policy
Relying on foundational American values as our guiding principles, A New Policy promotes a hopeful, forward-looking vision that advances liberty, equality and human rights in Israel and Palestine.
As a nondenominational, nonsectarian, nonpartisan American organization, A New Policy educates members of Congress on related foreign policy, legislative, and regulatory matters, and lobbies government officials to urgently pursue long-overdue policies that reflect our American values, interests, and voter preferences, as well as comply with U.S. laws. A New Policy works in partnership with organizations across the political spectrum to bring together a large American constituency for change.
For more information, visit https://anewpolicy.org/
