Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota criticized former President Donald Trump and U.S. military actions in the Middle East, suggesting that the U.S. should avoid further entanglement in foreign conflicts. Her remarks came shortly before reports that the U.S. had used “bunker buster” bombs on Iranian nuclear facilities. Omar emphasized the need to prioritize peace and argued against what she described as unnecessary military involvement, particularly regarding Israel and Iran.

Omar posted on social media that “no one is attacking or has attacked Americans,” urging leaders not to commit future generations to war. Her comments sparked sharp disagreement from some lawmakers, including Rep. Randy Weber of Texas, who disagreed strongly with her characterization of Iran and its actions toward the U.S.

There is documented evidence of Iranian-backed groups being involved in past attacks on U.S. personnel, including events in Iraq and reported plots against American officials. A 2019 Military Times report stated that Iran was linked to the deaths of over 600 American service members in Iraq from 2003 to 2011, illustrating long-standing tensions.

Omar, who arrived in the U.S. as a refugee from Somalia, has also expressed deep concerns about domestic issues. She criticized the use of military force during protests in Los Angeles and compared the deployment of troops on U.S. streets to conditions in authoritarian regimes. Her remarks were made in the context of a military parade celebrating the U.S. Army.

She argued that such displays are contrary to American values and warned of democratic backsliding. According to Omar, the U.S. should be a beacon of hope and a defender of constitutional rights, not a country where military power is used to silence dissent.

Her comments prompted public debate, with critics accusing her of being overly negative and dismissive of the military. Others defended her right to free speech and her call for peace and accountability.