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As tensions between Israel and Iran rise, U.S. lawmakers are taking steps to prevent former President Donald Trump from initiating military action against Iran without congressional approval—an effort aimed at preventing a broader conflict in the Middle East.
This move comes as the U.S. military sends additional fighter jets to the region and extends other warplane deployments, reinforcing its military presence. Officials noted that these include F-16, F-22, and F-35 aircraft.
Recently, reports from Axios revealed that Israel has been urging the U.S. to join its military operations against Iran. However, the U.S. is not currently considering such involvement.
Israel initiated airstrikes after determining that Iran was close to developing a nuclear weapon. This unexpected offensive has resulted in significant casualties, including the deaths of numerous high-ranking Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists, along with over 220 civilian deaths in Iran. Iran has responded with drone and missile strikes that have caused more than 20 fatalities in Israel.
Israel asserts control over Iranian airspace and plans to intensify its military efforts in the coming days. According to an Israeli military source, Iran has launched approximately 400 ballistic missiles and hundreds of drones targeting Israel.
Trump has repeatedly expressed that the Israeli campaign could be resolved swiftly if Iran agrees to strict limits on its nuclear program. Iran, on the other hand, denies pursuing nuclear weapons and maintains its right to develop nuclear technology for peaceful uses, referencing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Israel, notably outside the NPT, is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons without officially confirming or denying it.
Following this escalation, bipartisan lawmakers—who have been critical of U.S. military involvement abroad since the Afghanistan and Iraq wars—are striving to limit Trump’s military authority. Republican Congressman Thomas Massie proposed legislation requiring Trump to seek explicit congressional authorization prior to any military action against Iran. This proposed bill also mandates the cessation of any unauthorized military operations.
Democratic Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia introduced a similar measure in the Senate, stressing that only Congress has the constitutional authority to declare war. He stated, “It is not in our national security interest to enter a war with Iran unless it is absolutely necessary to protect the United States.”
Senator Bernie Sanders expressed concerns, accusing Israel of intentionally launching strikes to derail ongoing diplomatic negotiations, particularly regarding nuclear discussions that were slated before the recent tensions. “There can be no offensive military action—against Iran or any other country—without explicit authorization from Congress,” Sanders declared.
Senator Rand Paul warned against becoming embroiled in military conflict, asserting, “It’s not the U.S.’s responsibility to engage in this war.” Representative Massie echoed this sentiment on social media, stating, “This is not our war.”
Additionally, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar remarked, “No one is attacking or has attacked Americans. It’s time to stop pulling Americans into war and letting Israel entangle us in their conflicts. We need to represent the citizens who desire peace and avoid repeating costly military engagements for another generation.”
— With input from Reuters
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