[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 119 (Monday, July 28, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1247]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             REMOVING UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES FROM IRAQ

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 25, 2014

  Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House Concurrent 
Resolution 105. From day one, I have used my voice and my vote to 
promote peace in Iraq. Now, more than ever, that country and its 
citizens deserve peace. Accordingly, any decision to escalate our 
military involvement in this war-torn country must be careful, 
deliberative, and include Congress. I was proud to be one of the first 
cosponsors of H. Con. Res. 105, which stipulates that ``the President 
shall not deploy or maintain United States Armed Forces in a sustained 
combat role in the Iraq without specific statutory authorization for 
such use enacted after the date of the adoption of this concurrent 
resolution.''
  There is no question that sectarian violence in Iraq poses a grave 
danger to both the country and region's stability. But before military 
options are put on the table, we must exhaust every possible diplomatic 
solution. Diplomacy and debate leads to lasting peace and 
stabilization, and at this point, I do not believe that sending more of 
our brave women and men to Iraq will win the peace. And I know I am not 
alone in this call for peace. But while it is one thing to express the 
desire for peace, it is a perhaps more daunting task to do what it 
takes to achieve peace. Change is afoot in Iraq's leadership, and I am 
hopeful they can move swiftly towards a more inclusive government that 
reflects the diversity of religions and prioritizes the meaningful 
stability and security for all citizens.
  I will continue to watch this situation closely and insist that 
Congress be consulted for any matter involving U.S. military 
involvement. The stakes are too high and the cost is too great. I 
strongly urge you to vote in favor of this resolution.

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