U.S. and Israel Conduct Strikes on Iran Without Congressional Approval
The United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes on Iran without prior authorization from Congress, prompting a divided response among U.S. lawmakers.
On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel initiated coordinated military strikes targeting various locations in Iran, including sites in Tehran and other cities. The operation, named "Operation Lion's Roar" by Israel, was conducted without prior authorization from the U.S. Congress.
The White House notified top congressional leaders, known as the "Gang of Eight," shortly before the strikes commenced. However, the administration did not seek formal approval from Congress, raising constitutional concerns. Article I of the U.S. Constitution grants Congress the sole power to declare war.
Reactions among U.S. lawmakers were mixed. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) praised the operation. Johnson stated, "Today, Iran is facing the severe consequences of its evil actions." Conversely, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) criticized the lack of congressional consultation, emphasizing the need for the administration to provide Congress and the American people with critical details about the scope and immediacy of the threat.
In response to the strikes, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S. military bases in the Gulf region. Explosions were reported in multiple Middle Eastern countries, with significant casualties, including at least 85 people killed in a strike on a girls' school in southern Iran.
The operation has intensified debates over the president's authority to conduct military actions without congressional approval. Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) called for an immediate vote on a War Powers Resolution to restrict further military action without congressional consent. Representative Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) labeled the strikes as "acts of war unauthorized by Congress."
Internationally, Russia condemned the strikes as "a preplanned and unprovoked act of armed aggression" against a sovereign UN member state, warning of potential humanitarian and economic consequences.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing military engagements and diplomatic efforts to address the escalating conflict.
