In the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, several lawmakers from both parties are calling on Congress to rein in the president’s military actions and prevent further escalation in the Middle East.
Democratic Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia announced plans to push for a Senate vote this week on legislation requiring Trump to end hostilities with Iran unless Congress explicitly authorizes war. Similarly, Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Democratic Representative Ro Khanna of California seek a House vote on comparable measures aimed at restoring congressional oversight over military action.
Kaine criticized the administration’s decision as a “war of choice” lacking a clear national security justification and warned against unilateral executive actions without congressional debate or approval.
Despite these efforts, Republican leaders in both chambers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, have shown strong support for Trump’s strikes, making the passage of restrictive measures unlikely. Both leaders were briefed ahead of the attacks, with further congressional briefings expected soon.
The attacks have divided Trump’s populist MAGA movement, with some members backing the president’s approach while others warn against re-entering “forever wars” reminiscent of Iraq and Afghanistan. Massie emphasized that many voters supported Trump because of his promise to prioritize domestic issues and end endless conflicts abroad.
On intelligence matters, opinions differ over Iran’s nuclear weapons capability. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said U.S. intelligence suggests Iran could potentially build a bomb within weeks or months if it chooses, though officials do not believe Iran has made that decision. Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, focused on energy and medical research.
Trump has recently criticized Massie for opposing the strikes and vowed to support his primary challenger in the 2026 elections, accusing Massie of being out of touch with the party base.
Other Trump allies, including Senator Lindsey Graham, defend the president’s constitutional authority to conduct military operations without prior congressional approval, arguing that Congress can always cut funding if it disagrees.
While many Republicans praise the strikes as a necessary setback to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Democrats caution that the mission’s long-term success is uncertain, noting Iran may have relocated nuclear materials out of targeted sites. Khanna warned of the dangers of rushing into overseas wars without clear outcomes, which often leave Americans bearing the consequences for decades.