A growing number of U.S. lawmakers from both parties are calling for Congress to limit President Donald Trump’s military powers after his recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. The attacks have sparked fears of another prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
Democratic Senator Tim Kaine plans to push for a Senate vote this week, urging Trump to end hostilities unless Congress formally declares war. Similarly, Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna are pressing for a House vote to block further military action. They argue that the president bypassed Congress without any immediate threat to national security.
The strikes have divided Trump’s own MAGA base. While some supporters praised the move as necessary to halt Iran’s nuclear ambitions, others warned against entering another “forever war,” recalling the costly U.S. engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Despite internal criticism, Republican leaders like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune supported Trump’s decision, saying it was taken after evaluating imminent threats. However, critics pointed out that Congress was not fully briefed before the strikes were launched.
Trump, in response, attacked his critics within the GOP. He vowed to back Massie’s challenger in the next elections, calling the Kentucky lawmaker “lazy” and “nonproductive.” Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also expressed concern about the attack but clarified she still supports Trump overall.
As the political debate continues, Democrats warn that the situation with Iran remains unstable. They caution against declaring victory too soon, suggesting Tehran may have safeguarded its nuclear material at hidden sites. The incident has reignited the debate over presidential war powers and America’s long-term role in foreign conflicts.