Senator Jeff Merkley's joint resolution would direct the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless Congress passes a declaration of war or specific authorization. Like the parallel Iran resolutions filed the same day in April 2026, it invokes the War Powers Resolution after the U.S. launched Operation Epic Fury against Iran on February 28, 2026, without congressional authorization. Its findings are the most spare of the Iran package — focused on Congress's sole power to declare war and the technical mechanics of the expedited 50 U.S.C. 1546a floor-vote procedure. The bill preserves U.S. defensive, intelligence-sharing, and partner-assistance authorities, including aid to countries attacked by Iran since February 28, 2026.
Transparency & Accountability
- Congressional war-powers check on Iran hostilities — forced floor vote under expedited 50 U.S.C. 1546a procedures
Congressional Summary
This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless a declaration of war or authorization to use military force for such purpose has been enacted.The resolution specifies that it shall not be construed to prevent the United States from defending against an attack on the United States or its personnel or facilities in other nations.
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- Senate
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in Senate
- Action Date
- 2026-04-13
- Date Added
- 2026-05-07
- Source
- Congress.gov →
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