In a rare move, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) broke ranks with many in his party by openly supporting President Donald Trump’s strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities. In a post on X, Fetterman called the operation “correct” and praised the U.S. military for executing it effectively. His support has intensified ongoing divisions in Congress over the legality and strategy of U.S. actions in the Middle East.
Fetterman’s backing aligns him with a bloc of pro-Israel Democrats and most Republicans who support aggressive measures to contain Iran’s nuclear ambitions. However, his stance runs counter to many in the Democratic Party, who argue that the strike lacked appropriate Congressional oversight.
Critics from both parties are questioning whether Trump had the constitutional authority to initiate the military action without consulting Congress. The move has renewed a long-standing debate over presidential war powers and the role of legislative oversight in military interventions.
Interestingly, some Republicans—particularly those associated with the MAGA wing of the party—have also expressed concerns. They worry that Trump’s decision contradicts his earlier anti-interventionist stance and may alienate supporters who backed him for his promises to avoid foreign conflicts.
Both Democrats and Republicans are now demanding clarity on the administration’s strategy. Lawmakers want to understand how the strike fits into a larger plan and what safeguards exist to prevent Iranian retaliation, especially through proxy militias or covert attacks on U.S. interests.
CIA Director John Ratcliffe is scheduled to deliver a closed-door briefing to the full Senate on Tuesday. The briefing is expected to provide insight into intelligence assessments and the expected response from Iran or its allies.
Meanwhile, Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA) have introduced a bipartisan resolution aimed at prohibiting further U.S. involvement in Iran. The measure reflects a broader desire in Congress to reassert control over foreign military engagement.
Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) is also preparing to bring the issue to the Senate floor, aiming to force a debate on war powers and the limits of presidential authority in future military decisions involving Iran.