Veterans in Congress Introduce Bills to Limit Iran War

Two military veterans in Congress introduced bills seeking to limit the U.S. war in Iran, now in its third month, as President Donald Trump continues military operations without congressional authorization. Representative Tom Barrett, a Michigan Republican and 22-year Army veteran, introduced legislation that would authorize continued military operations through July 30 but bar ground troops except for rescue and intelligence missions, prohibit occupation or nation-building, and require withdrawal within 30 days after that deadline. Barrett's bill would also require the president to report operations, legal justifications, and casualties to Congress every 30 days.

Representative Pat Ryan, a New York Democrat and former Army intelligence officer, introduced the No Funds for Iran War Act, co-sponsored by 16 military veterans in Congress, which would block additional taxpayer funding for the conflict without a congressional Authorization for Use of Military Force or declaration of war.

The legislative push follows Trump's assertion that a ceasefire he declared on April 7 paused the 60-day War Powers Resolution clock, even as the U.S. Navy continues blockading Iranian ports and forces have exchanged fire. Military operations continued past a May 1 deadline, despite Trump reporting to Congress that force had ended. Trump has challenged the requirement for congressional approval, arguing such mandates are unconstitutional based on precedents set by former presidents. The war has cost at least $25 billion, killed 13 U.S. servicemembers, and wounded hundreds more. The Trump administration is expected to seek up to $200 billion in supplemental funding.