First term Sen. Jim Webb (D-Va.) has introduced a bill that would prohibit the Bush Administration from conducting “unprovoked” military operations in Iran without a Congressional OK. In a floor statement, Webb said the measure “would restore a proper balance between the executive and legislative branches when it comes to the commencement of military activities.” Webb also noted that he takes this action despite being “one of the early voices warning that in terms of national security, Iran was a far greater threat than Iraq.” Rumors are still rampant that the US intends to tackle Iran militarily, despite repeated Administration denials. Of course, Vice President Dick Cheney recently fueled the fire with his statement that all options remain open.
The U.S. supports “a stronger and more capable” European defense, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III said during an Oct. 22 press conference in Brussels—but that defense should not duplicate the functions and capabilities of the NATO alliance.