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Warner Warns Against Military Action in Iran

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, January 11th 2026 at 11:46 GMT by CNN

Washington, D.C. - January 11, 2026 - Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) cautioned against escalating tensions in the Middle East and highlighted the complexities of ongoing government funding debates in a series of interviews today. His remarks followed former President Donald Trump's recent suggestion that the United States should consider military intervention in Iran to address the ongoing protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini.

Trump's proposal, viewed by many as alarmingly reckless, ignited immediate condemnation. Warner, appearing on CNN's "State of the Union," characterized the former president's comments as "extraordinarily dangerous rhetoric." He emphasized the critical need for caution in the Middle East, particularly in the context of the already volatile situation in Gaza, where recent weeks have witnessed a dramatic increase in conflict. A military intervention in Iran, Warner argued, would carry unpredictable and potentially devastating consequences, risking a wider regional conflict.

"It's extraordinarily dangerous rhetoric," Warner stated. "I think you have to be very, very careful about escalating the situation in the Middle East, particularly given what we've seen in Gaza in the last few weeks." He firmly advocated for a diplomatic approach, acknowledging the inherent difficulties in engaging with the Iranian government. While acknowledging the brutality of the Iranian regime's response to the protests and the suffering of the Iranian people, Warner stressed that military action should remain a last resort, reserved only for circumstances involving direct threats to U.S. interests or allies.

The protests in Iran, triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini while in the custody of morality police, represent a significant challenge to the current Iranian leadership. These demonstrations highlight deep-seated societal frustrations and calls for greater freedom and human rights. While the U.S. has expressed support for the Iranian people's aspirations, direct military involvement would likely destabilize the region further and potentially empower extremist groups. Diplomatic efforts, though challenging, remain the most responsible course of action, aiming to leverage international pressure and explore avenues for dialogue.

Beyond the international front, Senator Warner also addressed the increasingly urgent issue of government funding and the looming threat of a government shutdown. The ongoing negotiations between the House and Senate are proving contentious, with House Republicans pushing for substantial cuts to non-defense spending. A key point of contention involves the funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Warner voiced serious concerns about potential reductions in ICE funding, arguing that such cuts would negatively impact border security and national security.

"We've got to come up with a compromise," Warner asserted. "The House Republicans are demanding a significant cut to non-defense spending, and then there's the issue of ICE funding." He acknowledged the need for fiscal responsibility but insisted that national security considerations must be prioritized. A shutdown, Warner warned, would not only disrupt essential government services but also undermine U.S. credibility both domestically and internationally. The senator emphasized the importance of finding common ground and avoiding politically motivated brinkmanship.

Warner's perspectives offer a crucial reminder of the complex challenges facing the Biden administration - navigating geopolitical instability while simultaneously addressing domestic policy priorities. The delicate balance between asserting American leadership on the world stage and avoiding actions that could exacerbate conflicts requires careful consideration and a commitment to diplomacy. Simultaneously, the ongoing funding debates underscore the political polarization within the United States, highlighting the difficulty of achieving consensus on critical issues impacting the nation's security and well-being. The coming weeks are likely to be pivotal, demanding skillful negotiation and a willingness to compromise from all parties involved.