House Speaker Opposes War Powers Resolution Amid US-Iran Strikes

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has opposed efforts by lawmakers to advance a war powers resolution aimed at checking President Donald Trump's use of military force against Iran following a missile attack on a U.S. airbase in Qatar. Johnson stated that it is neither an appropriate time nor necessary to consider such a resolution, emphasizing Trump's authority as commander in chief to act unilaterally to address imminent threats, including the Iranian nuclear program. Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna introduced a bipartisan resolution claiming congressional authorization is required for Trump's actions, with similar efforts underway in the Senate led by Senator Tim Kaine. Despite pressure from some Democrats and members of Congress, Johnson rejected suggestions that Trump's actions constitute grounds for impeachment and highlighted the urgency posed by Iran's advancing nuclear capabilities. Meanwhile, Iran confirmed its missile attack on U.S. forces in Qatar, intensifying tensions in the region amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The debate reflects sharp divisions between those advocating for congressional oversight and those supporting the president's unilateral military decisions to protect American interests and allies.