WASHINGTON

Three senior House Democrats on Friday warned against preemptive US military action targeting Iran, urging President Donald Trump to pursue diplomacy instead of force.

In a joint statement, Gregory W. Meeks, ranking member of the Foreign Affairs Committee; Adam Smith, ranking member of the Armed Services Committee; and Jim Himes, ranking member of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, said they “strongly oppose preemptive U.S. military action against Iran."

The lawmakers argued that it would endanger American personnel and risk expanding conflict across the Middle East.

"Absent a broader diplomatic framework, military strikes would be destabilizing, dangerous, and counterproductive to efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East," they said.

The three Democrats emphasized that diplomacy remains the "most effective" way to constrain Iran’s nuclear program and prevent a broader regional war.

They pointed to renewed talks with Tehran as evidence that a diplomatic path remains viable.

"Renewed talks with Tehran show that a diplomatic path remains open, which President Trump should not abandon for a short-term, unauthorized show of military force that leaves Americans less secure," they added.

The lawmakers also underscored Congress’ constitutional authority over decisions of war and peace.

"If the President believes military action is necessary, he must come to Congress and make the case that it is in the national security interest of the United States to do so," they added.

Earlier Friday, Trump said he was "considering" a limited military strike to pressure Iran into a deal, without giving details.