Over 40 residents from Iowa City, along with University of Iowa students, gathered on the Pentacrest on March 8 to voice their opposition to U.S. military actions in Iran. This protest comes amid increasing tensions following coordinated airstrikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iranian targets, initiated in late February due to concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its regional influence.
In response, Iran has conducted missile and drone attacks targeting U.S. military bases and allied nations, resulting in the tragic loss of at least six U.S. service members, including two from Iowa, following a drone strike in Kuwait. The surge in violence coincides with Iran’s announcement of Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late supreme leader Ali Khamenei, as its new supreme leader, further complicating the landscape of U.S.-Iran relations.
During the protest, demonstrators displayed signs urging an end to the conflict, declaring slogans such as “Stop Israel Before WW3” and “Give peace a chance.” Flags from the U.S. and Palestine fluttered among the protesters, who were united by a shared plea for peace.
Among those speaking was Allan Hogue, a Vietnam War veteran, who reflected on the lessons learned from past military engagements. He cautioned against the dangers of entering another prolonged conflict, emphasizing the painful outcomes faced by veterans and civilians alike from past wars.
Sue Thompson, a member of Veterans for Peace, expressed concerns that current military actions are a distraction from significant domestic issues. She highlighted the overwhelming nature of national crises and called for a shift in focus toward more pressing matters affecting American citizens.
Travis Terrell, a Democratic candidate for Iowa’s 1st Congressional District, echoed these sentiments, questioning the prioritization of military expenditure over crucial welfare needs at home. He criticized the notion of diverting massive financial resources toward warfare while many families struggle without basic health insurance.
Johnson County Supervisor Mandi Remington shared her reflections on childhood experiences with bomb drills, understanding the traumatic impacts of war not only on those abroad but also on American children. She remarked on the disturbing reality of what tax dollars are funding.
Brady Gell, a graduate student, found himself compelled to join the protest, motivated by a sense of urgency to speak out against the violence. He emphasized the importance of dialogue across differing political views to foster understanding and progress.
Despite a backdrop of support from passing cars, awareness of apathetic attitudes within his generation was noted by protester Shaw. He pointed out a reluctance to act or believe that individual efforts could influence change, stressing the need for active engagement in confronting the realities of current events.
This protest reflects a growing sentiment among constituents who advocate for peace and prioritize addressing domestic issues over military conflict. The gathering not only symbolizes dissent against war but also serves as a reminder of the historical context of anti-war movements, evoking the spirit of protests from previous generations.