Trump bypasses Congress and approves imminent Iran strike within hours — shockwaves across Washington

Tensions in Washington are rising as President Trump moves closer to launching military action against Iran, surprisingly even without congressional approval.

As reports circulate of a greenlit plan awaiting only Trump's final approval, lawmakers, advocacy groups, and the general public are scrambling to avert what they fear will be a catastrophic war.

The decision, prompted by pressure from Israel and warmongers, has sparked immense criticism from Congress and the public. Critics warn of unauthorized war and demand that Congress reestablish its constitutional authority over such warfare.

Has Donald Trump already approved military action?

Rumor has it US President Donald Trump has approved the US attack plan against Iran without the consent of Congress.

ALSO READ: Iran threatens U.S: Analysts warn of potential sneak attack by Tehran on America as tensions soar

According to CBS News, Trump "approved attack plans on Iran Tuesday night."

In response to reports that he has privately approved plans for a U.S. attack on Iran, President Donald Trump was scheduled to meet with top advisers in the White House Situation Room on Thursday morning.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump stated to top aides that he "approved of attack plans for Iran, but was holding off on giving the final order to see if Tehran will abandon its nuclear program."

"Using advanced F-22 air-to-air fighters, which flew Wednesday to a base in Britain, warships that can shoot down ballistic missiles, tanker planes to refuel aircraft in flight, and an aircraft carrier battle group, the U.S. military continued to move forces to Europe and toward the Middle East," reported the Wall Street Journal.

Next week, the Trump administration is scheduled to provide senators with a classified briefing on Iran; however, the president may order a military strike before then, per a report by Common Dreams.

Donald Trump, who criticized his predecessor for allowing new wars to break out on his watch, is apparently now himself planning to strike Iran. Netizens even mocked his dramatic change of stance after his old tweets resurfaced.

What are lawmakers doing to stop the strike?

Members of Congress who oppose war are acting quickly to garner support for legislative measures to prevent an unapproved U.S. attack on Iran, as the president is expected to make a final decision at any time.

Even though new polling indicates that a majority of Americans oppose U.S. military action in Iran, only 37 members of Congress have supported anti-war resolutions that are currently before the House and Senate, according to one count, as per a report by Common Dreams.

In a letter published Wednesday, the advocacy group Demand Progress urged Americans to contact their representatives and urge them to support war powers resolutions by calling 1-833-STOP-WAR.

Iranian officials sharply criticized Trump's aggressive rhetoric and call for "unconditional surrender" in anticipation of a potential U.S. attack, saying on Wednesday that Iran "does NOT negotiate under duress.

FAQs

Has Donald Trump officially authorized a strike on Iran?
Not yet. According to reports, he approved the plans but will wait to see if Iran backs down on its nuclear program before making a final decision.


Can Donald Trump strike Iran without Congress?
War requires congressional approval. Lawmakers are pushing war powers resolutions to prevent an unauthorised strike, urging the public to contact Congress and oppose escalation.