As President Trump's threats against Iran escalate, Congress is seeing a renewed push for greater oversight on military engagement, with two bipartisan resolutions introduced to require congressional approval before engaging U.S. troops in offensive actions. This effort underscores a growing concern among lawmakers regarding unchecked executive power amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
Trump's Threats Spark Congressional Push for War Powers Debate
Trump's Threats Spark Congressional Push for War Powers Debate
A bipartisan group in Congress moves to rein in presidential war powers amid escalating tensions with Iran.
On June 17, 2025, tensions increased as President Trump publicly entertained joining Israel's military actions against Iran. The House resolution, led by Democrats and Republicans alike, would ensure that any offensive military action against Iran would require prior congressional approval, challenging the notion of unilateral presidential authority in warfare. The bipartisan collaboration includes Representative Ro Khanna from California and Republican Thomas Massie of Kentucky but faces opposition, particularly among Trump loyalists.
Senator Tim Kaine introduced a parallel resolution in the Senate, but both measures may struggle to find traction, given the Republican majority's hesitation to confront Trump's command. Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, has effectively sidestepped votes against Trump's authority, although the resolutions have garnered attention and are slated for upcoming votes, potentially igniting spirited discussions on Capitol Hill.
Critics of the House resolution, like Representative Mike Lawler, express skepticism about its bipartisan support, while senators such as Lindsey Graham advocate for further U.S. involvement in the conflict, reflecting deep party divisions over military strategy in Iran. The ongoing debate highlights the fractious nature of U.S. foreign policy decision-making and the complexities surrounding the balance of power between Congress and the presidency.
Senator Tim Kaine introduced a parallel resolution in the Senate, but both measures may struggle to find traction, given the Republican majority's hesitation to confront Trump's command. Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, has effectively sidestepped votes against Trump's authority, although the resolutions have garnered attention and are slated for upcoming votes, potentially igniting spirited discussions on Capitol Hill.
Critics of the House resolution, like Representative Mike Lawler, express skepticism about its bipartisan support, while senators such as Lindsey Graham advocate for further U.S. involvement in the conflict, reflecting deep party divisions over military strategy in Iran. The ongoing debate highlights the fractious nature of U.S. foreign policy decision-making and the complexities surrounding the balance of power between Congress and the presidency.
