Republican lawmaker seeks limits on Iran war powers

Rep. Tom Barrett, a Michigan Republican facing a competitive reelection race, has introduced a resolution to limit U.S. military operations involving Iran. The measure would authorize war through the end of July to target Iran’s nuclear program and protect U.S. ships, while also setting limits on ground troops, occupation, and nationbuilding. Barrett said Congress should define the mission with clear safeguards and a deadline, arguing the U.S. should not be drawn into another long war. His proposal comes as the White House says a ceasefire has effectively ended the relevant hostilities, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio has criticized the War Powers Resolution as unconstitutional. The resolution also reflects broader debate in Washington over how long U.S. military actions against Iran can continue without new congressional approval. Barrett’s district is rated a tossup, and it is still unclear whether he will support any separate war powers measure when lawmakers return to Washington.