Fact Check: "Trump ordered airstrikes against Iran without Congress's authorization."
What We Know
On June 22, 2025, President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes against Iran's nuclear facilities without prior consultation with Congress. This decision has sparked significant criticism from lawmakers who argue that it bypasses their constitutional authority to declare war. According to NPR, Senator Mark Kelly expressed that the president should respect constitutional norms, while Senator Tim Kaine stated, "The United States should not be in an offensive war against Iran without a vote of Congress." The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war (Article I), while the president is designated as the Commander in Chief of the military (Article II). Historically, presidents have engaged in military actions without formal declarations of war, but the legality of such actions remains contentious.
Analysis
The claim that Trump ordered airstrikes without Congressional authorization is supported by multiple sources. The airstrikes were executed without a formal declaration of war or an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) from Congress, which has been a point of contention among lawmakers. Legal experts, such as Rebecca Ingber and Stephen Griffin, argue that the framers of the Constitution intended for Congress to have a significant role in decisions to engage in war. Griffin notes that while the Constitution does not explicitly require a formal declaration, it does necessitate legislative approval for military actions.
Critics of the airstrikes, including Senator Kaine, have highlighted the constitutional implications of bypassing Congress. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 was designed to ensure that both Congress and the President have a role in military engagements, requiring the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of deploying forces and to cease operations within 60 days unless Congress authorizes further action. However, this resolution has often been sidestepped by various administrations, including Trump's, leading to ongoing debates about its effectiveness and adherence (CBS News).
While some argue that the airstrikes were a necessary response to an imminent threat, others, including legal scholars, contend that the lack of Congressional authorization renders the action unconstitutional. Michael Glennon, a law professor, stated that the Constitution prohibits the president from using armed force against another country unless there is an immediate threat to the U.S., which he claims was not present in this instance (FactCheck.org).
Conclusion
The claim that Trump ordered airstrikes against Iran without Congressional authorization is True. The evidence indicates that the airstrikes were executed without the necessary legislative approval, raising significant constitutional concerns. The ongoing debate about the balance of power between Congress and the presidency in military matters underscores the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and constitutional law.
