US lawmakers push to curb Trump’s authority on Iran strikes

A group of US lawmakers from both major parties has urged Congress to assert its constitutional authority over war powers, following President Donald Trump’s decision to order strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

While Republican leaders in both the Senate and House have backed the military action, there appears to be little chance that any resolution curbing Trump’s powers would pass both chambers.

Democratic Senator Tim Kaine said he plans to force a Senate vote this week on a measure requiring Trump to end military operations against Iran unless Congress formally declares war.

"This is the U.S. jumping into a war of choice at Donald Trump's urging, without any compelling national security interest for the United States to act in this way, particularly without a debate and vote in Congress," Kaine told CBS’ Face the Nation.

In the House, Republican Representative Thomas Massie and Democrat Ro Khanna have introduced similar legislation and called for an immediate vote.

The White House has not commented on the pushback from lawmakers.