Representative John Larson Moves to Defund Unauthorized War on Iran

Larson announced plans to file a lawsuit targeting the administration's interpretation of the 1973 War Powers Act. The White House currently argues that recent escalations constitute a new conflict, effectively resetting the 60-day clock mandated by law. Larson characterizes this position as a transparent attempt to bypass constitutional oversight. Beyond the courtroom, the Connecticut Democrat is drafting legislation to prohibit federal spending on unauthorized strikes, a move intended to halt the administration’s reported plans to expand the assault, potentially through the deployment of ground troops.

This legislative pivot follows the failure of previous non-binding resolutions. While both chambers of Congress previously urged a withdrawal of forces, those measures lacked the force of law, leaving President Trump free to reimpose a naval blockade and intensify a bombing campaign that began in late February. With the House set to vote on the annual National Defense Authorization Act as early as Wednesday, Republicans on the Rules Committee have already blocked an amendment that would have restricted Pentagon spending on the Iran operation. Advocacy groups are now intensifying pressure on lawmakers, demanding that no further funding be granted until a formal peace deal is reached.