GOP dissenters emerge on Trump's threat against Iranian "civilization"

Kate Santaliz

Two suited men speak at a wooden podium with microphones, one gesturing; behind them is the American flag and a blue display reading "Congress," framed by foreground architecture. — Leader John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson hold a press conference on Oct. 10, 2025. Photo: Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images

With a few exceptions, congressional Republicans were silent on Tuesday as the clock ticked down on President Trump's threat to wipe out Iranian civilization unless the Strait of Hormuz was reopened.

Why it matters: Republicans in Congress have shown unwavering loyalty to Trump, and the president's threat against Iran appears to be no exception to the long-standing pattern of limited GOP resistance.

Driving the news: Rep. Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas) said in a post on X that "I do not support the destruction of a 'whole civilization.' That is not who we are, and it is not consistent with the principles that have long guided America."

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) posted Trump's threat "cannot be excused away as an attempt to gain leverage in negotiations with Iran."
"This type of rhetoric is an affront to the ideals our nation has sought to uphold and promote around the world for nearly 250 years. It undermines our long-standing role as a global beacon of freedom and directly endangers Americans both abroad and at home," Murkowski added.
"The United States does not destroy civilizations. Nor do we threaten to do so as some sort of negotiating tactic," Republican-turned-independent Rep. Kevin Kiley (Calif.) said. Kiley added that Congress has a responsibility to conduct oversight of the war.

Zoom in: GOP leaders in the House and Senate have not publicly weighed in on Trump's remarks.

Congressional Democrats have been sounding the alarm about the threat, with some lawmakers floating impeachment or even removal via the 25th Amendment.

The bottom line: Congress has been out of session since March 27, and GOP lawmakers have been able to avoid uncomfortable questions in the Capitol hallways.

Some Republicans have welcomed the comments: The official Senate Republicans' X account warned Iranians to take Trump "at his word."

Go deeper: Trump removal chatter erupts among Dems over Iran post

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GOP dissenters emerge on Trump's threat against Iranian "civilization"

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