The Senate returned to session yesterday June 16 as lawmakers demand clarity on the U.S. military’s involvement in Iran amid escalating conflict between Israel and the Islamic Republic. With refueling tankers now stationed in Europe, members from both parties want to know if America is merely supporting Israel—or inching toward direct engagement.
Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) has already introduced a war powers resolution, aiming to force a vote in the Senate before any formal U.S. military action against Iran. Under the Constitution, only Congress can authorize war, making this a critical test of executive power.
President Donald Trump’s administration has received bipartisan praise for its crisis management. Yet concerns remain, especially among MAGA-aligned voters who strongly support Israel but expect the U.S. to avoid new foreign wars. Trump’s original pledge to stay out of foreign entanglements remains a cornerstone of his political base.
GOP lawmakers have warned Iran and its proxies against escalating the situation, promising a strong U.S. response if provoked. Any retaliation would likely draw Washington deeper into the conflict, raising concerns about domestic terrorism and overseas attacks on American interests.
One Republican lawmaker summarized the dilemma: “You can’t be a little bit pregnant. But you can be a little bit at war.” That’s the threshold lawmakers are now trying to define—with urgency and constitutional oversight.
