DOJ says Trump can launch strikes, but may need Congress if Iran conflict grows
A U.S. Department of Justice official said U.S. President Donald Trump attacked Iran based on Article II of the U.S. Constitution.
Donald Trump carried out the attacks against Iran based on the constitutional powers granted to him as President of the United States under Article II, according to a senior Justice Department official. Furthermore, Trump had previously consulted with the White House counsel and the Justice Department.
Article II clearly states that the President of the United States has the authority to order the use of military force to carry out and promote national interests. However, Article I of the US Constitution also states that Congress has the authority to declare war on any country. This is a fact that President Trump will need to clarify shortly.
Trump may need Congress to declare war on Iran, but holds strong legislative support
On the other hand, the official mentioned that President Trump stated that he relied solely on written memoranda from the Office of the Legal Counsel of the US Department of Justice. This means that if this conflict between Israel and Iran continues, Trump would have to turn to Congress to obtain its approval to go to war against Iran.
While it requires congressional approval, the official mentioned that the Trump administration has the support of the majority of representatives in the Senate and the House of Representatives. Therefore, the White House has a strong case to bring its intention to declare war on Iran before Congress.
President Trump could face Congress if the Iran conflict escalates, as the DOJ states future military action may require legislative approval under the Constitution. Photo: AFP
AG Pam Bondi to testify on Trump’s war powers amid Iran strike debate
Likewise, Pam Bondi, the United States Attorney General, will address the House tomorrow to address questions on the issue and seek further clarification of the President's powers under Articles I and II of the US Constitution.
Furthermore, a White House official commented that President Trump used all his legal authority as commander of the armed forces to launch last Saturday's attacks against Iran.
