Bills/S.J.Res. 59

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

In CommitteeForeign AffairsSenateSenate Joint Resolution · 119th Congress
Bill Progress · Senate
Introduced
Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Passed Both
Signed

Plain Language Summary

# Summary of SJRES 59 **What the Bill Does** This bill would require the President to stop any U.S. military operations against Iran unless Congress first approves them through either a formal declaration of war or a specific authorization to use military force. Essentially, it asserts that the President cannot engage in military hostilities against Iran without getting Congress's approval first. **Who It Affects and Key Details** The bill directly affects the President's military authority and applies to the U.S. Armed Forces' operations in the Middle East.

It's based on the constitutional principle that Congress—not the President alone—has the power to declare war. The bill would not affect military operations that have already been authorized by Congress. **Current Status** The bill was introduced by Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and is currently in committee, meaning it's in the early stages of the legislative process and has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate or House. Whether it advances depends on committee action and broader congressional support.

CRS Official Summary

This joint resolution directs the President to terminate the use of U.S. Armed Forces for hostilities against Iran unless explicitly authorized by a congressional declaration of war or a specific authorization for use of military force against Iran.

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Latest Action

June 27, 2025

Motion to discharge Senate Committee on Foreign Relations rejected by Yea-Nay Vote. 47 - 53. Record Vote Number: 328. (consideration: CR S3595)

Sponsor

D
Kaine, Tim [D-VA]
D-VA · Senate

Key Dates

Introduced
June 16, 2025
Last Updated
June 27, 2025
Read Full Text on Congress.gov →
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