119-HCONRES-100 Journalist Public Summary

Public Summary

Headline Summary: A resolution to stop U.S. military involvement in hostilities with Iran unless Congress explicitly authorizes it.

What It Does: The measure invokes section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution to direct the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities against Iran or its government/military unless Congress passes a declaration of war or a specific authorization for use of military force. It explicitly preserves the military’s ability to act in immediate self‑defense, maintain defensive deployments in the region, and continue intelligence gathering and sharing. It also clarifies that the resolution itself does not authorize any new use of force.

• Sponsor: Rep. Valerie Foushee (D‑NC); introduced May 13, 2026.
• Lawmakers who want Congress—not the President alone—to decide on war with Iran, citing constitutional checks and the risk of escalation without clear authorization.
• Some anti‑war and civil‑liberties advocates who argue the War Powers Resolution should be enforced to prevent open‑ended conflicts.

Who’s For It:

• Lawmakers who favor a strong deterrent posture toward Iran and worry that withdrawal signals weakness or invites aggression.
• Members concerned that rigid limits could constrain commanders, hinder protection of U.S. personnel and partners, or reduce leverage in negotiations.
• Those who question whether a concurrent resolution can legally compel troop removal without a signed law, noting long‑running debates over Congress’s and the President’s war powers.

Who’s Against It:

What’s Next: As of May 13, 2026, it has been referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The committee may hold hearings or a markup. If advanced, it would go to the full House, and a similar measure would need Senate action for it to take effect; practical impact could also depend on how the executive branch interprets its authority. No votes have occurred yet.