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.

Legislative Summary: S.J. Res. 114

Overview

S.J. Res. 114 is a joint resolution introduced in the 119th Congress to mandate the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities involving the Islamic Republic of Iran. The resolution is based on the principle that the executive branch cannot engage in "massive and ongoing" military actions—specifically those described as "war"—without explicit authorization from Congress.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of this resolution is to reassert congressional authority over the declaration of war, as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution.

The bill specifically responds to an executive order issued by President Trump on February 28, 2026, which directed air strikes within Iranian territory. The sponsors argue that these actions constitute "hostilities" under the War Powers Resolution and that the administration is operating without the necessary statutory or constitutional authorization.

Key Provisions

The resolution contains two primary sections:

1. Mandated Removal of Forces

• Direct Action: The resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran.
• Condition for Continuation: Military action may only continue if it is explicitly authorized by a formal declaration of war or a specific statutory Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF).
• Expedited Procedure: The bill invokes the Department of State Authorization Act (FY 1984-1985) and the International Security Assistance and Arms Export Control Act of 1976 to ensure the resolution is considered under expedited procedures.

2. Permitted Activities (Exceptions)

To ensure national security is not compromised, the resolution explicitly states it does not prevent the U.S. from:
* Self-Defense: Defending the United States, its personnel, or its facilities abroad against attacks.
* Intelligence: Collecting, analyzing, and sharing intelligence regarding threats from Iran or its proxies.
* Allied Support: Assisting partner countries that have been attacked by Iran (since February 28, 2026), specifically by helping intercept retaliatory attacks or providing defensive material support.

Who is Affected?

• The Executive Branch: The President would be legally required to cease offensive military operations in Iran.
• U.S. Armed Forces: Personnel engaged in unauthorized hostilities would be withdrawn.
• International Partners: Allies of the U.S. who have been attacked by Iran would still be eligible for intelligence sharing and defensive support.

Procedural Status

• Introduced: March 5, 2026, by Senator Tammy Baldwin.
• Current Status: As of April 22, 2026, the resolution remains stalled. A motion to discharge the bill from the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations was rejected by a vote of 46-51.