A cross-party coalition of House legislators is planning to endorse a war powers resolution aimed at restricting U.S. participation in Iran amidst its escalating conflict with Israel. They are also indicating a potential move to compel a vote on this issue.
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), a prominent libertarian-leaning Republican who consistently opposes U.S. military interventions abroad, announced on the social media platform X that he would propose the resolution on Tuesday.
“This is not our war. However, if it were, it is Congress that must make such decisions as per our Constitution,” stated Massie. “I’m presenting a bipartisan War Powers Resolution tomorrow to limit our involvement. I urge all Congressional members to support this resolution.”
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) said he would co-lead the resolution with Massie and that the resolution would be privileged — a designation that can allow the members to circumvent leadership to force a full House vote.
“No war in Iran. It’s time for every member to go on record. Are you with the neocons who led us into Iraq or do you stand with the American people?” Khanna said in a post on X. “I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan War Powers Resolution with Rep. Massie that is privileged and must receive a vote.”
The idea got swift support from some House Democrats.
“Signing on,” replied Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).
Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) also said he would sign on.
President Trump has declined to rule out using the power of the U.S. military to help Israel strike Iran, even as he pushes Iran to negotiate and strike a deal to ensure it would never obtain a nuclear weapon.
The U.S. has helped Israel in missile defense, but the Pentagon said Monday night that American forces are maintaining their defensive posture.
On Air Force One on Monday night, Trump told reporters: “We’re looking for better than a ceasefire” and was looking for “a real end,” with Iran “giving up entirely.”
