[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1135]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 THE UNITED STATES MUST JOIN THE TREATY ON THE PROHIBITION OF NUCLEAR 
                                WEAPONS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ILHAN OMAR

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 13, 2024

  Ms. OMAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the increasing threat 
of nuclear weapons. Last year, the United States spent $51.5 billion on 
nuclear weapons. Imagine if we used even a fraction of that to tackle 
homelessness, fund healthcare, or address the climate crisis. Instead, 
we're pouring billions into weapons that could wipe out entire cities 
in seconds.
  The simple truth is, as long as nuclear weapons exist, humanity is at 
risk. One miscalculation, one malfunction, one act of aggression, and 
we're looking at a disaster that could end civilization as we know it. 
Keeping these weapons isn't about strength or security--it's about 
holding on to outdated Cold War fears.
  The only sane position is the complete abolition of these weapons of 
mass destruction from the face of the planet. But this will only happen 
with bold leadership from the United States.
  As tensions rise with adversaries like Russia and China, and concerns 
grow about nuclear proliferation in volatile regions like the Middle 
East, the threat of nuclear war is more urgent than it has been since 
the Cuban Missile Crisis.
  That's why I'm grateful to my colleague, Congressman Jim McGovern, 
for his tireless work in drawing attention to this critical issue. He 
understands that we have a moral imperative to act.
  It's time for the United States to join the Treaty on the Prohibition 
of Nuclear Weapons and take a real stand for disarmament. Maintaining 
an arsenal of world-ending weapons is not a sign of strength--it is a 
terrifying vulnerability.
  The American people deserve leaders who will prioritize human lives 
over outdated Cold War posturing. We have the chance to make the world 
a safer place, redirect resources to pressing domestic needs, and 
fulfill our obligation to future generations.
  The time for action has never been more pressing.

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