Washington, D.C. – We are deeply disappointed that Congress failed to pass a War Powers Resolution to stop President Trump’s illegal and immoral war on Iran. The House of Representatives voted 219 to 212 to reject a War Powers Resolution which would have withdrawn U.S. forces from hostilities against Iran. This follows a vote from the Senate 53-47 to reject a parallel resolution.
“This vote does not equal an authorization for war. This war remains unconstitutional. It is illegal under international law. It is deeply immoral and reckless. It must stop immediately.”
“We must be clear,” Hassan El-Tayyab, FCNL’s legislative director for Middle East policy explained, “This vote does not equal an authorization for war. This war remains unconstitutional. It is illegal under international law. It is deeply immoral and reckless. It must stop immediately.”
Bridget Moix, FCNL’s general secretary, reminds us: “Hundreds of people have already died in Iran, including many children, and U.S. soldiers have been killed as well. These lives did not have to be lost. More bombs and drones will just lead to more death and a greater catastrophe – not justice and not lasting peace. The only way forward is diplomacy.”
We have faith that peace is still possible and urge Congress to continue forcing debate and votes under the expedited procedures of the War Powers Act of 1973 so that lawmakers publicly confront and challenge this unauthorized war.
FCNL will continue working tirelessly with Congress and peace advocates across the country to oppose any Iran war funding supplemental and ensure that no more taxpayer dollars are spent on this illegal war. All parties must immediately cease military strikes to bring about urgent de-escalation and a return to diplomacy. Our children deserve a future of international cooperation, justice, accountability, and lasting peace.