A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.
SJRES117 – Directs removal of U.S. Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities with Iran
119th Congress
This joint resolution would require the President to pull U.S. Armed Forces out of hostilities in or against Iran unless Congress passes a specific war or force authorization. It also clearly allows certain defensive and support activities to continue. It has been introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
- Bill Number
- SJRES117
- Chamber
- senate
What This Bill Does
The resolution orders the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from ongoing or future fighting in or against Iran that has not been clearly authorized by Congress through a declared war or a specific law allowing the use of military force. This is based on existing law that lets Congress use fast-track procedures to demand removal of U.S. forces from hostilities. At the same time, the resolution explains what it does not stop. It does not block the United States from defending itself, its people, or its facilities in other countries if they are attacked. It does not limit collecting, analyzing, or sharing intelligence, including with Israel and other partners, about threats from Iran or groups linked to Iran. The resolution also allows the United States to keep helping Israel and other countries with defensive measures, such as protecting their territory from attacks by Iran or its proxies and giving them defensive equipment. It further allows U.S. help with the safety, departure, and evacuation of U.S. citizens affected by the conflict. The main change is to stop unauthorized U.S. combat operations in or against Iran while keeping defensive and support roles in place.
Why It Matters
This resolution deals with when and how the United States can use military force without a clear, specific approval from Congress. It is important for service members and their families, because it could limit their involvement in direct fighting in or against Iran unless Congress votes to allow it. For the broader public, the resolution highlights the balance of power between Congress and the President over decisions of war and peace. It may affect how the United States responds to threats linked to Iran, since it aims to restrict offensive hostilities but still permits self-defense, intelligence work, support to allies, and evacuation of U.S. citizens. The exact impact on military and diplomatic strategy would depend on how the President and Congress act if the resolution becomes law.