Senator Kaine Seeks to Limit Trump War Powers Against Iran

As tensions escalate between Israel and Iran, President Donald Trump is contemplating U.S. military involvement, prompting Democratic senators to push for congressional oversight to prevent unilateral war decisions. Senator Tim Kaine has introduced a War Powers Resolution that would require Trump to obtain explicit congressional authorization before engaging U.S. forces in hostilities against Iran, except in cases of imminent self-defense, invoking Trump's own past opposition to "endless wars." Democratic voices, including Senators Chris Murphy and Bernie Sanders, emphasize the constitutional necessity for Congress to declare war and express concern over the public's strong opposition to further Middle Eastern conflicts, with polls showing only 16% of Americans support involvement. This bipartisan effort reflects worries about repeating mistakes akin to the Iraq War and highlights divisions within both parties about U.S. military engagement. Despite some bipartisan backing, the resolution faces challenges in Congress, particularly from Republicans reluctant to constrain Trump's authority. The debate underscores the ongoing tension between executive power and congressional war powers amid fears of escalating conflict in the Middle East.