The reported U.S. attack on Iran marks one of the most consequential national security decisions in recent years. It demands sober scrutiny — not reflexive celebration, not partisan instinct, but constitutional seriousness.

At the outset, we state clearly our respect for and support of the men and women who serve this nation in uniform, in our intelligence services, and in our diplomatic corps. They execute lawful orders, often at personal risk, and with professionalism that reflects the highest traditions of public service. Our concerns are not directed at those who serve, but at the process and judgment that place them in harm’s way. Their courage and commitment deserve clarity of mission, constitutional legitimacy, and strategic discipline.

The Steady State, an organization of more than 380 former senior U.S. national-security, intelligence, diplomatic, defense, and law-enforcement officials, today sent a formal demand letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) concerning public statements by a senior DHS official threatening “consequences” for individuals engaging in constitutionally protected speech.

The Steady State unequivocally condemns the fatal shooting earlier today in Minneapolis by ICE paramilitary officers, in which a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident was shot and killed at the intersection of 26th Street West and Nicollet Avenue. This incident constitutes another lethal use of force by heavily armed federal agents in the city, following the January 7 killing of 37-year-old Renée Nicole Good by an ICE paramilitary.