WASHINGTON — Congress is expected to vote this week on measures seeking to limit President Donald Trump as he escalates military action against Iran, though the Republican majority is likely to block the effort.
Under the U.S. Constitution, only Congress can declare war. However, the 1973 War Powers Act allows a president to launch limited military action in response to an emergency, with congressional approval required if fighting extends beyond 60 days.
Democratic Senator Tim Kaine has introduced a resolution requiring the president to seek authorization before engaging in further military conflict with Iran. Kaine argues there was no imminent threat to the United States that would justify unilateral action.
Senator Mark Warner echoed that concern, saying lawmakers must determine whether Iran posed a direct threat to the U.S., rather than solely to Israel.
Meanwhile, Republican Representative Thomas Massie and Democratic Representative Ro Khanna are pushing for a House vote to formally require congressional approval.
The White House says top congressional leaders were notified before hostilities began. Even if the measures pass, they would likely face a presidential veto — requiring a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override.
The votes are expected later this week.
