Iran’s decision to launch a limited missile attack against a base in Iraq occupied in part by American troops will most likely stall a Democrat effort to force a vote on a new War Powers Resolution that would restrict President Trump’s authority.
On Monday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced that the House would take up a War Powers Resolution to curb Trump’s military options in responding to Iranian aggression after he ordered a strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.
A number of Democrats complained that the administration did not notify them in advance of the strike, which is not required by law.
Still, even after Iran responded late Tuesday with a salvo of missiles, Pelosi continued to warn the president against what she termed “needless provocations” by his administration, Fox News .
“Closely monitoring the situation following bombings targeting U.S. troops in Iraq. We must ensure the safety of our servicemembers, including ending needless provocations from the Administration and demanding that Iran cease its violence,” she tweeted Tuesday evening. “America & world cannot afford war.”
Earlier, Pelosi sent House colleagues a letter stating, “This week, the House will introduce and vote on a War Powers Resolution to limit the President’s military actions regarding Iran.”
But as of Wednesday morning, there was no such vote scheduled on the House docket. And Iran’s response may hamper her ability to whip her caucus into line on a new vote to restrict the commander-in-chief.
Rep. Mikie Sherrill, D-N.J., a former Navy pilot, told Fox News that while she remains in favor of an updated Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) that would place restrictions on Trump’s ability to take unilateral military action.
However, Fox News added, she is reluctant to push for new limitations in the middle of a conflict.
Democrat leaders showed no signs of introducing the resolution, the network added.