119-HCONRES-93 Journalist Public Summary

Headline Summary

Pull U.S. troops out of fighting with Iran unless Congress votes to authorize it, with a narrow self‑defense exception.

What It Does

H. Con. Res. 93 tells the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities against Iran unless Congress passes a declaration of war or a specific authorization for force. It permits U.S. forces to act in true self‑defense against an imminent attack and expects the President to follow the War Powers Resolution’s reporting and time‑limit rules. In short: no ongoing military action against Iran without a clear, affirmative vote from Congress.

Who’s For It

• Lead sponsor: Rep. Seth Moulton (D‑MA).
• Original backers listed on introduction: Reps. Jason Crow, Patrick Ryan, Chrissy Houlahan, Jimmy Panetta, Jake Auchincloss, Maggie Goodlander, Eugene Vindman, and Robert “Bobby” Scott (all Democrats).
• Supporters’ core argument: Congress—not the Executive alone—should decide whether to enter or continue a war; this measure reduces the risk of unintended escalation with Iran and brings any major action to a public vote.

Who’s Against It

• Lawmakers who favor giving the President broad latitude to respond quickly to Iranian threats may oppose it, arguing it could tie commanders’ hands.
• Members who want to maintain or increase military pressure on Iran may say the resolution sends the wrong signal or could embolden Tehran.
• Some may worry that drawing a strict line on “hostilities” creates operational gray areas for ongoing force protection and deterrence missions.

What’s Next

As of April 28, 2026, the resolution was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Next steps could include a committee hearing and vote, followed by possible consideration on the House floor. Because this is a concurrent resolution under the War Powers framework, both the House and the Senate would need to pass it for Congress to issue the directive.