Trump weighs military action against Iran amid legal concerns

President Donald Trump is currently contemplating whether to order U.S. strikes on Iran, with a decision expected within the next two weeks, according to White House officials. This comes after days of intense speculation and escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, prompting fears of further escalation and retaliation in the region.

Throughout the week, Trump has been publicly discussing the possibility of getting more involved in the conflict between Israel and Iran, as both countries continue to carry out deadly strikes against each other. Despite attempts by Cabinet officials to distance the U.S. from the conflict, Trump has made it clear that all options are on the table.

In a series of social media posts and statements to the press, Trump has warned Iran of the U.S.’s control over the skies and has refused to rule out the possibility of direct strikes on the country. The president has been meeting with advisers, including approving attack plans against Tehran in the event they fail to comply with demands regarding their nuclear program.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that Trump will make a decision on U.S. involvement in the conflict within the next two weeks. However, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has rejected negotiations with the U.S., warning of irreparable harm if the U.S. were to attack Iran.

As Trump weighs his options, lawmakers have been meeting to discuss the possibility of legislation that would require congressional approval for any significant U.S. engagement in Iran. The War Powers Resolution, passed in 1973, sets limits on the president’s ability to authorize the use of force without congressional approval.

While some lawmakers argue that Trump would be violating U.S. laws by acting unilaterally, others believe that the president has the authority to act without congressional approval for a set period of time. Ultimately, the decision to engage in a major operation would require congressional approval.

Critics of Trump’s threats against Iran fear escalation in the region and potential retaliation against U.S. officials stationed overseas. There are also concerns about the U.S. potentially violating international law, specifically the United Nations charter that prohibits the threat or use of force except in limited circumstances.

Despite these concerns, some lawmakers and experts have expressed support for Trump’s actions, arguing that Iran’s nuclear program poses a threat to national security. Senators like John Barrasso and Lindsey Graham have praised Trump’s actions so far and expressed a willingness to support U.S. involvement in destroying Iran’s nuclear facilities.

As Trump continues to deliberate on his next steps, it remains to be seen what his ultimate decision will be and how it will impact the ongoing conflict in the region.