WASHINGTON: Democratic United States (US) Senator, Tim Kaine of Virginia introduced legislation aimed at curbing the ability of the Republican US President Donald Trump to engage in military action against Iran without obtaining prior approval from Congress.
The initiative reflects Kaine’s long-standing efforts to reclaim war powers from the executive branch and ensure that the Congress played a more central role in decision regarding military engagement.
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The proposed bill comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with the US supporting the occupying forces. Concerns have grown over the potential military confrontation escalating into wider Middle Eastern region, with Israel attacking Iran right in the middle of peace talks between Iran and the US.
The US Senator stated that it was important for congressional oversight in matters of war. He argued that the decision to engage in military action should not rest solely with the US president.
Meanwhile, the US State Department also issued a travel advisory, urging the US citizens to avoid traveling to Iran. The advisory reveals the precarious situation in the region and advised those currently in Iran to leave the country immediately.
For US citizens unable to depart, the State Department recommended that they prepare for an extended stay.