U.S. Justice Department: Trump's military action against Iran is constitutionally authorized, but congressional approval may be needed if the conflict continues
ChainCatcher news, according to a report by Jinshi, a senior official from the U.S. Department of Justice stated that President Trump, under the executive powers granted by Article II of the Constitution, has decided to carry out airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. This decision has been discussed with the White House legal counsel and the Department of Justice.
The official stated that the president has broad military command authority in national security matters, while Article I of the Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war. Currently, the airstrikes on three nuclear targets "do not constitute an act of war requiring congressional approval," but if the conflict continues, the government may need to seek congressional authorization. The Department of Justice noted that this action references authoritative memoranda previously issued by the legal counsel offices of past administrations (both parties).
The White House believes that it has already gained support from senior members of both houses of Congress, providing a solid legal basis. Attorney General Pam Bondi is expected to testify before Congress tomorrow, reaffirming the legality of the president's actions under Article II of the Constitution.