Bill > HJRes82

This Joint Resolution directs the President to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities against Iran, meaning any active military engagements or situations where U.S. troops are involved in conflict, unless Congress has explicitly authorized such actions through a formal declaration of war or a specific authorization for the use of military force. The resolution emphasizes that existing authorizations, such as the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) related to the 9/11 attacks or the 2002 AUMF concerning Iraq, do not apply to military actions against Iran, a point acknowledged by the Trump Administration. It asserts Congress's constitutional power to declare war and highlights that the War Powers Resolution, a law designed to limit the President's ability to commit U.S. forces to armed conflict without congressional approval, defines "hostilities" broadly and mandates removal of forces if Congress so directs when there's no declaration of war or specific authorization. The resolution also notes that the introduction of U.S. forces into hostilities against Iran has occurred and that the current situation carries risks of escalation, arguing that any decision for armed conflict should involve full congressional briefing, public debate, and a vote. Finally, it specifies that this directive for removal must be completed within 30 days of the resolution's enactment, unless Congress provides a new authorization, and clarifies that it does not prevent the U.S. from defending itself against an imminent attack.