A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

United States119th CongressSJRES-163Senate
Updated: May 13, 2026

Summary

This joint resolution mandates the removal of United States Armed Forces from any hostilities within or against Iran, unless Congress has explicitly authorized such engagement through a declaration of war or a specific authorization for the use of military force. It strongly asserts that Congress holds the sole power to declare war under the Constitution and finds that no such authorization currently exists for military action against Iran. The resolution determines that any use of military force within or against Iran constitutes the introduction of U.S. Armed Forces into hostilities under the War Powers Resolution, triggering expedited procedures for its consideration. The directive explicitly orders the President to withdraw forces from these unauthorized hostilities. However, the resolution includes a crucial rule of construction, clarifying that it does not prevent the United States from taking certain defensive and intelligence-related actions. These permissible actions include defending against attacks on U.S. personnel or facilities, collecting and sharing intelligence related to Iranian threats, and providing assistance to partner countries attacked by Iran since February 28, 2026, for defensive measures.

Bill texts

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Introduced (Senate)View official text

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Timeline

  1. Introduced in Senate

  2. Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

    Senate

  3. Motion to discharge Senate Committee on Foreign Relations made. (Pursuant to the Arms Export Control Act of 1976).

    Senate

  4. Motion to discharge Senate Committee on Foreign Relations rejected by Yea-Nay Vote. 49 - 50. Record Vote Number: 118. (consideration: CR S2250-2255)

    Senate

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