US Congress considers moves to curtail Trump's war powers
The United States Congress is set to debate fresh efforts to restrict President Donald Trump from expanding military operations against Iran without explicit approval from lawmakers.
At the center of the push is a Senate resolution introduced by Tim Kaine, which invokes the War Powers Resolution of 1973 — a law passed during the Vietnam era to curb unilateral presidential war-making. If adopted, it would require the administration to end US military involvement in hostilities with Iran unless Congress votes to authorize continued action.
Kaine argued that the Constitution grants Congress the sole authority to declare war and said lawmakers must formally debate the risks facing American troops.
In the House of Representatives, a bipartisan measure led by Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie seeks to direct the president to withdraw US forces from unauthorized hostilities. A separate, more moderate proposal backed by Josh Gottheimer calls for stricter compliance with existing law and enhanced congressional consultation rather than an immediate halt.
The debate follows coordinated US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, which have reportedly resulted in American casualties and heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.
Democratic leaders, including Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, have demanded detailed briefings and a clear articulation of military objectives. Some progressives, such as Bernie Sanders, have openly opposed escalation.
However, divisions persist within both parties. While many Republicans back the president, Massie has questioned whether the conflict aligns with the “America First” doctrine.
Even if passed, any resolution would likely face a presidential veto, requiring a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override — a high hurdle in a closely divided Congress.
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