Khanna and Massie Push for War Powers Resolution to Block Iran Strikes

Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY) are set to introduce a War Powers Resolution aimed at blocking any military action against Iran without congressional approval. This initiative comes amid rising tensions and reports of a potential U.S. strike on Iran, with Trump administration officials indicating a 90% likelihood of imminent military action. Khanna emphasized the necessity of congressional authorization, stating, “Trump can’t [launch strikes] without Congress.” The resolution, which will be debated and voted on next week, seeks to ensure that any military engagement requires explicit legislative consent.

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The U.S. has significantly increased its military presence in the region, deploying the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, along with additional warships and aircraft. This buildup coincides with stalled negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program, raising concerns about a possible military conflict. Khanna has voiced strong opposition to unilateral military action, arguing that a war with Iran would be catastrophic, given its complex society and military capabilities. He stated, “We also have 30-40k U.S. troops in the region who could be at risk of retaliation.”

The Jerusalem Post

This is not the first attempt by Khanna and Massie to curb presidential military authority regarding Iran. They previously introduced a similar resolution during the 12-day war in June 2025, which aimed to prevent U.S. involvement in conflicts not authorized by Congress. Khanna has framed the upcoming vote as potentially one of the most consequential in congressional history, likening it to the votes preceding the Iraq War. He urged lawmakers to take a stand against what he termed “another endless dumb foreign war.”

Jewish Insider

The resolution has garnered bipartisan attention, with Khanna and Massie advocating for a united front against further military engagement in the Middle East. Massie, often described as an isolationist, reiterated his commitment to prioritizing American interests by opposing additional military conflicts. Former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) also expressed that the majority of Americans do not support war, emphasizing domestic issues over foreign military engagements.

Benzinga

Khanna and Massie have both articulated their positions on social media, with Khanna stating, “I won’t let Trump launch a disastrous war without Congress voting to stop it.” Massie echoed this sentiment, asserting, “I will vote to put America first which means voting against more war in the Middle East.” Their resolution aims to clarify that while military action requires congressional approval, it would not impede the U.S. from defending itself or conducting intelligence operations.

Washington Examiner

While Khanna and Massie are pushing for this resolution, there is a notable lack of clarity regarding the Trump administration's exact plans for military action against Iran. Reports indicate that while military options are being considered, no definitive decision has been made by President Trump. Additionally, previous resolutions aimed at limiting military action in other contexts, such as Venezuela, have faced significant opposition, raising questions about the likelihood of success for this initiative.

Washington Examiner

• “Iran is a complex society of 90 million people with significant air defenses and military capabilities. We also have 30-40k US troops in the region who could be at risk of retaliation. Congress must do its job and stop this march to war.” — Ro Khanna, Representative

The Jerusalem Post

• “I will vote to put America first which means voting against more war in the Middle East.” — Thomas Massie, Representative

The Hill

• “Like the votes before the Iraq war, this could be one of the most consequential votes in the history of Congress.” — Ro Khanna, Representative

The Hill