The US and Iran are set to sign a memorandum of understanding, marking a significant step towards peace. For military families, this comes as a relief after a tumultuous period of conflict. However, two key lessons must be taken from this experience: the dangers of gamifying war and the importance of congressional accountability.
The recent conflict saw the gamification of war, with social media filled with video-game-style reels of US airstrikes and commentary that treated active conflicts like a simulation. This desensitizes Americans to the real-life costs of war and silences families who carry the weight of these conflicts.
The US has not seen a formal declaration of war from Congress since 1942, and it is essential that Congress reclaims its constitutionally-appointed war powers. Recent votes in the House and progress on a similar Senate resolution show momentum to challenge executive overreach.
