Gottheimer, Lawler oppose Iran war powers act: ‘Risks signaling weakness’
The Hill
by Ryan ManciniFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Reps. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) have expressed opposition to a proposed war powers resolution that would require congressional approval for any military strike against Iran. The two lawmakers argued on Friday that such a measure could signal weakness to the Iranian regime, which continues to pose a significant threat to U.S. interests. They emphasized that as long as Iran's leadership promotes anti-American rhetoric, including the slogan "Death to America," it will remain a persistent danger. This stance reflects their belief that diplomatic and strategic approaches should be prioritized over legislative actions that could undermine national security.
The lawmakers' opposition highlights a broader debate within Congress about the appropriate role of legislative oversight in military actions. While some lawmakers advocate for greater congressional involvement to prevent unintended conflicts, Gottheimer and Lawler argue that such measures could embolden Iran and hinder the administration's ability to respond effectively to threats. Their reasoning aligns with concerns about signaling weakness to adversaries, a common argument against formalizing restrictions on military action through resolutions.
This issue is particularly relevant in the context of ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran over nuclear proliferation, regional influence, and cybersecurity issues. Advocates for the resolution argue that it would promote transparency and accountability, ensuring that any military action has bipartisan support and aligns with national interests. However, critics like Gottheimer and Lawler counter that such measures could create political constraints that limit the president's ability to act decisively in times of crisis.
For readers interested in politics, this debate underscores the delicate balance between checks on executive power and the need for agility in foreign policy decisions. The opposition from Gottheimer and Lawler also highlights divisions within Congress over how to approach Iran, with some prioritizing deterrence and others emphasizing diplomacy. As the resolution gains momentum, the outcome could shape future U.S.-Iran relations and set a precedent for legislative oversight of military actions.
Verticals
politicsnews
Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026