Updated October 26, 2026.
CNN reported this week that President Donald Trump keeps hinting he could resume the war with Iran after the midterm elections, and that some Republican voters in Iowa sound wary of the idea. Meanwhile, Florida Republican Rep. Carlos Gimenez told CNN he does not want his children or grandchildren to face a nuclear Iran, reflecting one argument made by supporters of a tougher approach. The debate raises a basic constitutional question: who decides when the United States goes to war?
What the Constitution says
Article I gives Congress the power to declare war and to fund the military, while Article II makes the president commander in chief. Presidents of both parties have used force without a formal declaration of war, arguing they have authority to protect U.S. interests and personnel.
The War Powers Resolution
Congress passed the War Powers Resolution in 1973 to limit that practice. Its main provisions are:
- The president must notify Congress within 48 hours of sending U.S. forces into hostilities.
- Forces generally must be withdrawn within 60 days, with a possible 30-day extension, unless Congress authorizes the action.
- Members of Congress can introduce resolutions directing the removal of forces, which privileged rules allow them to force to a vote in some circumstances.
Presidents of both parties have questioned the law’s constitutionality, and any resolution that passes both chambers can be vetoed. Overriding a veto requires two-thirds majorities.
Why the midterms matter
Whichever party controls Congress next year will influence whether lawmakers pursue war powers votes, hold hearings, or use the budget process to set conditions on military operations. Members of both parties have expressed concern about open-ended military commitments, while others argue Iran’s nuclear program demands a firm response.
Other regional tensions
CNN also reported that the United States ordered some embassy staff and families to leave Saudi Arabia amid a threat from the Houthis, a sign of continuing regional risks.
The situation is fluid, and we will update this article as officials provide more detail.
