US lawmakers introducing bill to limit Trump's power to strike Iran

"It is Congress that determines whether we go to war, not the President," said Senator Bernie Sanders

Web Desk

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17 Jun 2025

US lawmakers Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna are going to introduce a bipartisan bill to stop President Donald Trump from engaging militarily in the Israel-Iran conflict without prior approval of the Congress.

The bills are being introduced as President Trump considers increasing US involvement in the escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran.

Congressman Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky and member of President Donald Trump’s party, has introduced a bill requiring the president to obtain congressional approval before launching any military action against Iran.

The legislation directs the president to “terminate” any ongoing attacks on Iran that have not been explicitly approved by the Congress.

A similar measure was introduced in the Senate on Monday.

Although the bill would likely face a presidential veto even if it passes both chambers, supporters say it underscores mounting resistance to US military involvement in Iran and adds political pressure on the administration to avoid escalation.

Massie posted on X that "I just introduced an Iran War Powers Resolution with @RepRoKhanna to prohibit U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran war."

"This is not our war. Even if it were, Congress must decide such matters according to our Constitution."

I just introduced an Iran War Powers Resolution with @RepRoKhanna to prohibit U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran war.

This is not our war. Even if it were, Congress must decide such matters according to our Constitution. pic.twitter.com/LuIl59lt45
— Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) June 17, 2025

Ro Khanna reshared Massie’s post on X, writing, "No war in Iran. It's time for every member to go on record. I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan War Powers Resolution with Rep. Massie that is privileged and must receive a vote."

Separately, Senator Bernie Sanders wrote on X, "The Constitution of the United States is very clear. There is no ambiguity. It is Congress that determines whether we go to war, not the President."

"Trump must not take illegal military action against Iran."

The Constitution of the United States is very clear. There is no ambiguity. It is Congress that determines whether we go to war, not the President. Trump must not take illegal military action against Iran.
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) June 17, 2025