It is refreshing to find an evaluation of Mr. Trump’s directions to kill Qasem Soleimani based on the supreme law of the land (U.S. Constitution) rather than partisan bias, hero worship or hatred. In general I agree with your comments but challenge the following:

“1) If it can be verified that the nation of Iran poses an imminent threat to the lives, liberty, or property of American citizens, that all reasonable diplomatic efforts have been exhausted, and that American lives will be lost if immediate action is not taken, then it is the duty of Congress to issue a declaration of war against the sovereign nation of Iran pursuant to Article I, Section 8, Clause 11 of the U.S. Constitution, and of the President to prosecute that war through military force in defense of our God-given rights.”

The limits of the so called Presidential War Powers is a controversial issue and has been for many years. Common sense supports that if there is an imminent threat to the United States or its deployed personnel there is insufficient time to notify Congress and have war declared before taking defensive action. If a manned long range bomber was detected inbound to the U.S. it would be appropriate for fighters to be scrambled to intercept, investigate and destroy it if its actions were determined to be hostile. As I recall the presidential authority to defend our country and its citizens has been consistent throughout our history.

The 1973 War Powers Resolution was an attempt by Congress to define the powers of the president to commit troops to military action. It does not apply to missiles — such as the 59 Tomahawk cruise missiles launched against Syria’s Shayrat airbase in April 2017 — nor any remotely piloted vehicle (drones).

The reality of the situation is that Congress has been aware for years that certain individuals are on a “hit list” to be assassinated by drones should the opportunity arise. There has been adequate time to address the issue with legislation but Congress has been negligent to do so. Its failure to act implies endorsement of the assassination process.

In my opinion if the United States would cease meddling in the affairs of the Middle East our military personnel would not be targets for retaliation.