Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.
- Bill Number
- H.Con.Res. 117
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- International Affairs
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-09-15: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- Last Updated
- 2026-09-22T21:22:46Z
AI-Generated Summary
Summary of H. Con. Res. 117
Purpose
This concurrent resolution directs the President to end U.S. military involvement in hostilities against Iran. It uses existing authority under the War Powers Resolution to require the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from such conflicts, while allowing limited exceptions for defense against imminent threats.
Key Provisions
- Invokes section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution (50 U.S.C. 1544(c)) to direct the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with the Islamic Republic of Iran.
- Permits continued use of forces only if necessary to defend the United States or an ally or partner from an imminent attack, provided the President fully complies with section 5(b) of the War Powers Resolution (50 U.S.C. 1544(b)).
- Requires explicit congressional authorization, such as a declaration of war or a specific authorization for use of military force against Iran, for any broader involvement.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- Applies the War Powers Resolution's removal directive specifically to Iran-related hostilities, reinforcing congressional oversight without amending the underlying statute.
- Establishes a clear requirement for congressional approval before resuming offensive operations against Iran, building on the framework of prior authorizations for military force.
Potential Impacts
- Government agencies: Limits the executive branch's flexibility in conducting military operations against Iran, requiring compliance with congressional direction and reporting requirements.
- Citizens: May influence public perceptions of U.S. foreign policy and security commitments by signaling a shift toward reduced direct engagement.
- International relations: Could affect diplomatic ties with Iran, as well as coordination with U.S. allies and partners who might face altered security arrangements.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- U.S. Congress, which initiates the directive to assert its role in military decisions.
- The President and executive branch agencies, including the Department of Defense, responsible for implementing any withdrawal.
- U.S. Armed Forces personnel involved in or potentially affected by operations against Iran.
- The Islamic Republic of Iran and its government.
- U.S. allies and partners that could be impacted by changes in U.S. military posture in the region.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Reinforces the separation of powers by using the War Powers Resolution to limit presidential authority over military engagements, consistent with Congress's constitutional role in declaring war.
- May lead to legal or constitutional debates regarding the scope of executive war powers and the enforceability of such resolutions.
- Highlights ongoing tensions between branches of government on foreign policy and national security matters.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Houlahan, Chrissy [D-PA-6]
Recent Actions
- 2026-09-15: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- 2026-09-15: Submitted in House
- 2026-09-15: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran. — issued 2026-09-15 — PDF (2 pages)