Some Republican lawmakers are pressuring President Donald Trump to end the Iran war before congressional approval is required.
Concerns are mounting within the GOP as the conflict enters its sixth week, with some lawmakers warning that the administration may soon face a legal and political deadline under the War Powers Resolution.
The 1973 law requires presidents to seek congressional authorization if military engagements extend beyond 60 days, a threshold the current operation is approaching.
While Republicans initially rallied behind Trump's decision to launch strikes against Iran in late February, divisions are emerging as the scope of the operation expands.
Trump has intensified his rhetoric, warning Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes on infrastructure, including bridges and power plants.
Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, is among those urging caution, emphasizing constitutional limits on executive authority.
"[A] period of 60 days is a fully sufficient window" for emergency military action, Curtis wrote in a Deseret News opinion column, adding that continued engagement should require approval from Congress.
Similarly, Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., told The Hill he would consider supporting a war powers resolution if the conflict drags on, even as he acknowledged Iran's long-standing threat to U.S. interests.
"We all prefer a quick ending," Bacon said, noting that the outcome will depend on Tehran's actions.
Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., echoed that sentiment during an appearance on "Meet the Press," saying Congress "will have to take necessary action" if the operation extends beyond the legal window.
Lawler, who represents a competitive district, signaled he would support congressional involvement under those circumstances.
Despite the concerns, many Republicans continue to back Trump's hardline approach, arguing that reopening the Strait of Hormuz — through which roughly 20% of the world's oil flows — is vital to global stability and U.S. economic interests.
Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, told reporters that ensuring the strait remains open is critical for the United States and key allies, The Hill reported.
Still, unease persists among some conservatives who fear a prolonged conflict could undermine the "America First" agenda and alienate voters ahead of the midterms.
Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., has voiced opposition to additional war funding, citing concerns over government spending and domestic priorities during a CNN interview.
Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., has used X to warn against deploying U.S. ground troops without greater transparency and congressional input.
Public opinion appears to reflect the growing skepticism.
A CNN poll last week found that a majority of Americans disapprove of the U.S. military action in Iran, highlighting the political risks facing Republicans as the conflict continues.
Even so, GOP leaders have largely held the line against Democrat-led efforts to curb Trump's authority.
Previous war powers resolutions have failed, though another vote could be on the horizon when lawmakers return to Washington.
Charlie McCarthy ✉
Charlie McCarthy, a writer/editor at Newsmax, has nearly 40 years of experience covering news, sports, and politics.
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