Measure seeks to address potential Iran conflict

A group of lawmakers recently supported a bill designed to prohibit expending funds which could lead to war with Iran without express approval from Congress.

Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) has joined Sens. Tom Udall (D-NM) and Rand Paul (R-KY) as well as several other colleagues in advocating for the Prevention of Unconstitutional War with Iran Act.

“Iran is and has been the leading state sponsor of terrorism, and we must continue to work in a bipartisan way to confront Iran and hold it accountable for its malign activity and actions in the Middle East,” Casey said. “I have a long record of working to fight against Iranian aggression and the Prevention of Unconstitutional War with Iran Act ensures that Congress plays an active, Constitutionally-prescribed role in ensuring the United States’ approach to Iran puts American interests of peace and stability first.”

The legislation emphasizes Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution of grants Congress sole power to declare war and makes it clear that a preemptive attack against Iran is illegal under both the War Powers Act and the U.S. Constitution.

The measure also affirms the U.S. ability to respond to an imminent military threat from Iran and defend citizens who may come under threat of physical harm.