Congress Considers Bipartisan War Powers Resolution to Limit US Iran Military Action

In response to escalating tensions in the Israel-Iran conflict, multiple bipartisan War Powers Resolutions have been introduced in both the House and Senate to restrict President Donald Trump's ability to unilaterally engage the U.S. military in war against Iran without congressional approval. Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA) co-lead a House resolution affirming the War Powers Resolution of 1973, requiring presidential notification within 48 hours and limiting military action to 60 days unless Congress authorizes further involvement. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced a Senate resolution mandating a congressional debate and vote before the U.S. can provide offensive support in the Israel-Iran war, emphasizing the risks of entering another prolonged Middle East conflict. These efforts have gathered support from progressive Democrats such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib, as well as some conservatives, highlighting bipartisan concern over unchecked executive war powers. Critics argue that Congress must uphold its constitutional authority to avoid repeating past mistakes, while some Republicans oppose limiting support to Israel, citing broader geopolitical threats from Iran and its allies. The resolutions are privileged, meaning they must be brought to a vote quickly, reflecting urgent congressional efforts to assert control over U.S. military involvement amid rising regional hostilities.