What President Biden decides to do over the next 48 hours could determine whether or not the United States goes to war with Iran. Late in January, three U.S. soldiers were killed and dozens injured in a drone attack launched by militias operating along the Iraq-Syrian border. This senseless loss of lives is just the most recent example of escalating strikes between the U.S. military and a variety of forces in the Middle East.

These attacks are directly linked to the ongoing violence in Gaza. But the last time there was a temporary ceasefire, the attacks on U.S. troops in the region ceased. A renewed deal would save Palestinian lives, release the hostages held in Gaza, and protect U.S. soldiers by broadly de-escalating tensions in the region. Taken together, these steps can create the conditions necessary to find a path to a lasting peace.

If one thing is clear since the horrific Hamas attacks of October 7, it is that violence begets more violence. Thankfully, there is a different path to choose.

The problem? Hawkish politicians are pounding the pavement calling for war. They’re using an absurd argument that not responding with violence makes the U.S. look weak. We know that’s not true, we know that strength is not about using violence, but rather finding solutions that work to build true safety and security. That’s why it’s so crucial for you to add your name to this petition calling on President Biden to choose a ceasefire in Gaza over a regional war in the Middle East right now.