Iran strikes were launched without approval from Congress, deeply dividing lawmakers

"Today, Iran is facing the severe consequences of its evil actions. President Trump and the Administration have made every effort to pursue peaceful and diplomatic solutions in response to the Iranian regime's sustained nuclear ambitions and development, terrorism, and the murder of Americans—and even their own people."

"The administration has not provided Congress and the American people with critical details about the scope and immediacy of the threat."

"Iran's nuclear ambitions, missile program and support for terror groups has posed a clear and unacceptable threat to U.S. interests in the region. I am confident it will successfully carry out the very clearly stated goals of this operation."

The U.S. and Israel conducted military strikes against Iran without congressional authorization, prompting renewed efforts to restrict presidential power over sustained military action. The Constitution grants Congress, not the president, the authority to declare war. The White House notified the Gang of Eight—party leaders from both chambers and Intelligence committee leadership—shortly before the attack. Republican leaders including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson praised the operation, citing Iran's nuclear ambitions, missile development, and support for terrorism as justifications. Most Democrats and some Republicans criticized the strikes, arguing the administration failed to provide Congress and the American people with critical details about the threat's scope and immediacy.

Read at www.npr.org