US-Israel Attack on Iran Draws Criticism from California Democrats

A major US-Israel attack on Iran, resulting in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has sparked a wave of reactions from California lawmakers. While Republicans largely praised the action as decisive, Democrats expressed concerns over the lack of congressional approval and the potential for escalation into a wider conflict.

Details of the Attack

The attack, launched on Saturday, February 28, 2026, involved strikes hitting at least 24 provinces across Iran . President Donald Trump announced the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stating the military began “major combat operations” to “defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime” . Trump characterized the Iranian regime as “a vicious group of very hard, terrible people” and vowed to finish “mass terror” .

Republican Support

Republican lawmakers generally supported the attack. Rep. Young Kim (R-Anaheim Hills) stated that Trump “took decisive action in response to refusal by the Iranian regime to capture diplomatic off-ramps, dismantle its nuclear program and end its reign of terror” . She also called for Congress to be briefed on “Operation Epic Fury.” Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Corona), chair of the Defense Appropriations Committee, expressed his anticipation for continued briefings from national security leaders and affirmed support for Israel and allies in the region .

Democratic Concerns Over Congressional Approval

Southern California Democrats largely condemned the attack, focusing on the lack of congressional authorization. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) stated the decision “stands in stark contrast to a President who promised to position Americans first and end foreign wars” . He emphasized the need for a clear strategy, transparency, and congressional approval before launching “large-scale military operations” .

Several House Democrats echoed these concerns. Rep. Dave Min (D-Irvine) acknowledged the suffering of the Iranian people under the current regime but criticized Trump for dragging the US into a “costly and illegal war” without consulting Congress . Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-Los Angeles) argued that Trump “started a war first, and now Congress is being asked to deal with the consequences” . Reps. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Mike Levin, Judy Chu, Laura Friedman, Robert Garcia, Raul Ruiz, Linda Sánchez, Mark Takano, Norma Torres, Derek Tran, and George Whitesides also voiced similar concerns regarding the lack of congressional authorization and the potential for escalation .

Additional Reactions

Governor Gavin Newsom (D) criticized Trump for engaging in an “illegal, dangerous war” that risks American lives without justification . Senator Adam Schiff (D) emphasized the need for Trump to make the case for military action to Congress and the American people . Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Redlands) stated House Democrats would force a vote on a War Powers resolution .

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Bonsall) offered prayers for the safety of U.S. Servicemembers . Rep. Nanette Barragán (D-San Pedro) called for Congress to reconvene and debate the matter .