US Congress for the first time supports limiting Trump's military powers regarding war with Iran
Kyiv • UNN
The US Congress has supported limiting Trump's right to wage war against Iran without the consent of lawmakers. The document must now undergo final approval and a veto.
The U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate have supported war powers resolutions that could limit President Donald Trump's ability to continue military actions against Iran without Congressional approval. This marks the first time since the start of the war on February 28 that the Republican-controlled Congress has taken such a step. This was reported by Reuters, according to UNN.
Details
The resolutions were supported by a portion of Republicans who joined Democrats amid growing concerns over the conflict, which has been ongoing for over three months. The War Powers Act, passed in 1973 following the Vietnam War, requires the president to inform Congress of the commencement of hostilities and mandates their termination after 60 days without specific authorization from lawmakers.
What the resolutions mean
Despite the support, both initiatives face serious obstacles. The Senate resolution has only passed a procedural vote, and to take effect, it must be approved by both chambers of Congress. Furthermore, lawmakers would have to override a potential veto by Trump, which requires a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and the Senate.
Proponents of the documents argue that Congress must reclaim its constitutional right to decide matters of war and peace.
The war powers resolution passed by the House of Representatives sends a clear signal to the president that lawmakers believe this war has gone on too long and violates the War Powers Resolution as well as the Constitution,
At the same time, opponents of the resolutions call them a political gesture that could weaken the U.S. position on the international stage. Trump himself sharply criticized the vote and stated that Republicans who supported the initiative alongside Democrats should be ashamed of their decision.
According to the latest Reuters poll, only 36% of Americans approve of U.S. strikes on Iran, while 25% believe the potential benefits of the conflict outweigh its costs. This could become a significant factor ahead of the Congressional elections to be held in November.