U.S. Congress Moves to Limit Trump's War Powers on Iran

The U.S. Congress is showing signs of moving to limit President Donald Trump's war powers. Both chambers (the House and Senate) could advance legislation this week to halt U.S. involvement in a war with Iran, absent congressional authorization.

In the House, Republican lawmakers including Reps. Thomas Massie, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Tom Cole voted with Democrats to reduce the president's war powers. More Republicans could join this effort this week.

President Trump stated on May 27 in an interview with CNBC that he was indifferent to whether negotiations broke down. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is expected to mention that the Trump administration prefers negotiations with Iran, but that 'other options' exist if diplomacy fails.

The U.S. military has not halted blockades of Iranian ports, and Tehran continues to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz. Some Republican lawmakers have warned President Trump not to agree to a deal that allows Iran to continue its regional influence. They argue that the U.S. military should be allowed to destroy Iran's military capabilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.