What is Congress doing about Trump's Iran strikes?

How lawmakers have reacted so far

The decision to carry out airstrikes inside Iran without prior, formal congressional authorization prompted swift activity on Capitol Hill. Democratic and some Republican lawmakers have moved to force votes and to seek legal limits on the president’s authority to use military force.

In the House, a bipartisan effort led by Rep. Thomas Massie — joined by progressive lawmakers such as Rep. Ro Khanna — advanced a resolution aimed at constraining the administration’s war powers in Iran. House Democratic leaders signaled they had the votes to force floor action designed to compel the White House to justify the strikes and to require congressional approval for prolonged hostilities.

In the Senate, Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine has publicly urged a War Powers Act vote, saying the upper chamber should press the administration to lay out its legal authority and strategic case. Multiple senators and representatives across parties raised concerns about escalation, civilian risk, and the constitutional role of Congress in authorizing military force.

Lawmakers’ responses have included:

• Demands for classified and public briefings from the administration and military commanders.
• Introduction or backing of War Powers measures designed to limit continued U.S. involvement absent congressional approval.
• Public statements questioning the legality and prudence of strikes launched without consulting Congress.

It remains unclear whether Congress will coalesce around a binding restriction that can override the administration. The push for votes reflects both constitutional concern and political pressure; supporters of the president argue swift military action was necessary, while critics insist that sustained or expanded operations require legislative authorization. The coming days will determine whether a formal check on the administration’s use of force succeeds.