US Federal House Bill HCR103

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Committee Review: 5/20/26

Caption

Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.

Summary

HCR 103 is a concurrent resolution directing the President, under section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran. It states that U.S. forces should be withdrawn from such hostilities unless Congress has specifically authorized military action against Iran through a declaration of war or a specific authorization for use of military force. The resolution includes a narrow exception allowing U.S. forces to remain engaged only to defend the United States or an ally or partner from an imminent attack, and only if the President complies with the reporting and consultation requirements of the War Powers Resolution. In practical terms, the measure is a congressional assertion of authority over the use of military force and a limitation on unilateral executive military action involving Iran.

Impact

If adopted, the resolution would not itself create a new statutory program, but it would invoke Congress’s War Powers Resolution authority to direct the President to end U.S. military hostilities with Iran absent explicit congressional authorization. It would affect the scope of executive war-making power and could constrain ongoing or future military operations involving Iran, while preserving limited defensive action in response to imminent threats. The measure would primarily affect the President, the Department of Defense, and U.S. armed forces engaged in or supporting operations related to Iran.

Sentiment

The available context suggests the resolution is supported by members who favor reasserting congressional control over military engagements and avoiding unauthorized conflict with Iran. The bill’s sponsorship by a sizable group of House members indicates organized support for limiting escalation and requiring explicit congressional approval for any broader military action. No committee debate or recorded votes are provided, so there is no evidence here of formal opposition or amendment activity, but the subject matter is typically politically sensitive and closely tied to broader debates over war powers and foreign policy.

Contention

The main point of contention is the balance between congressional war powers and the President’s authority to use military force, especially in situations involving imminent threats or protection of allies and partners. Supporters are likely to emphasize the need for explicit authorization before hostilities with Iran expand, while opponents may argue that the President needs flexibility to respond quickly to threats and protect U.S. forces and partners. The exception for imminent defense and the requirement to comply with War Powers reporting obligations may also be debated as to how narrowly or broadly they should be interpreted.