Congressional Leaders React to Trump Ordering Strike Attack on Iran

President Trump ordered U.S. strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities on Saturday night, leading to divergent reactions among congressional leaders. Some Republicans praised the decision as necessary while many Democrats questioned its constitutionality, citing the need for congressional approval. This development may escalate tensions in U.S.-Iran relations moving forward.

In a dramatic escalation, President Donald Trump announced late Saturday that he had ordered U.S. military strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, drawing mixed reactions from congressional leaders. Republicans generally voiced their support for the president’s actions, while Democrats raised concerns over Trump’s authority to initiate military action without congressional approval.

Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, known for his pro-Israel stance, quickly praised the decision in a post on X, stating it was “the right call.” He expressed pride in America’s military capabilities, affirming the president’s action as justified. Conversely, Senator Bernie Sanders was addressing supporters in Tulsa, Oklahoma when he reacted to the news. He condemned the attack as “grossly unconstitutional,” insisting that only Congress holds the power to declare war.

Democrat Representative Jim Himes emphasized the constitutional implications of the strike on X, stating, “According to the Constitution we are both sworn to defend, my attention to this matter comes BEFORE bombs fall. Full stop.” Meanwhile, Republican Congressman Tom Massie expressed skepticism about Trump’s authority to launch the strikes without congressional consent, declaring, “This is not constitutional.”

Arizona Republican Representative Rick Crawford, who heads the House Intelligence Committee, stated he had consulted with Trump prior to the strikes. He expressed regret that tensions with Iran had reached this level but supported the president for recognizing established red lines over the years. In contrast, California Democratic Representative Ro Khanna called for Congress to reconvene and vote on a War Powers Resolution as a measure to avoid future conflicts in the Middle East.

House Speaker Mike Johnson had been briefed before the strikes and issued a statement endorsing the military action, referring to it as a “decisive” move that aims to thwart terrorism. He had originally been slated to travel to Israel for discussions but canceled due to the ongoing crisis.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Republican Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming also stood firmly behind the president’s decision. Barrasso called it the right action against Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Similarly, Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn applauded Trump’s bravery in addressing the Iranian threat. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat, called the action “correct,” reiterating concerns about Iran’s sponsorship of terrorism.

This situation remains fluid, and further updates are anticipated as reactions continue to develop following these military actions.

The announcement by President Trump to strike Iranian nuclear sites has ignited substantial debate in Congress. While many Republicans hail the action as necessary and justified, Democrats express grave concerns regarding the constitutional implications and potential for escalation. As leaders weigh in, the divide between support and opposition reflects the evolving dynamics of U.S. foreign policy positioning in the Middle East. The story is still developing, and updates are expected as the situation unfolds.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com