Letter to Congressional Leaders on United States Military Operations in Iraq

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Madam President:)

I am providing this report regarding recent military action as part of my efforts to keep the Congress fully informed, consistent with the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148).

I directed this military action consistent with my responsibility to protect United States citizens both at home and abroad and in furtherance of United States national security and foreign policy interests, pursuant to my constitutional authority as Commander in Chief and Chief Executive, and to conduct United States foreign relations and in accordance with the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force (Public Law 107-40) and the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq (Public Law 107-243). The United States took this necessary and proportionate action consistent with international law and in the exercise of the United States' inherent right of self-defense as reflected in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. The United States stands ready to take further action, as necessary and appropriate, to address further threats or attacks.

Additional information is available in the attached classified annex. I appreciate the support of the Congress in this action.

Sincerely,

JOSEPH R. BIDEN, JR.