House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries warned the Trump administration that it must receive approval from Congress before joining Israel’s war against Iran.
“President Trump and his administration must refrain from engaging in offensive military action in Iran without the explicit approval of the House of Representatives and the Senate,” the New York Democrat said in a statement Friday.
Mr. Jeffries said he supports Mr. Trump’s goal of kneecapping Iran’s nuclear program, but that it should be achieved by “aggressive diplomacy,” not military strikes.
“Iran is a sworn enemy of the United States and can never be permitted to become a nuclear-capable power,” he said. “Israel has a right to defend itself against escalating Iranian aggression, and our commitment to Israel’s security remains ironclad.”
Mr. Trump on Thursday gave Iran two weeks to negotiate a deal before he decides whether the U.S. will intervene in Israel’s war against the country.
But on Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said “there will be no place for diplomacy and dialogue” unless Israel halts its offensive.
SEE ALSO: Trump gives Iran two weeks to accept nuclear deal or face U.S. military strikes
Mr. Jeffries’ statement urging talks came after Mr. Araghchi’s televised comments.
“Aggressive diplomacy resulting in a longer and stronger agreement that permanently halts Iran’s nuclear aspirations is the most appropriate course of action at this time,” the House Democratic leader said.
A bipartisan group of House lawmakers, led by Reps. Thomas Massie, Kentucky Republican, and Ro Khanna, California Democrat, has introduced a war powers resolution directing the president to terminate the use of U.S. armed forces for “hostilities” against Iran unless explicitly authorized by a congressional declaration of war.
The measure includes letting the U.S. defend itself from “imminent attack” as well as collect and share intelligence regarding Iran.
Sen. Tim Kaine, Virginia Democrat, has introduced similar war powers legislation in his chamber and plans to force a vote as soon as next week.
The House lawmakers will also try to force a vote.
