One month in, disapproval high but US lawmakers take no action on Iran war

One month into a U.S. war with Iran, Congress has not moved to formally authorize or challenge the conflict, despite public polling showing high disapproval and concerns over rising gas prices. Republicans and Democrats remain divided on the war's necessity and scope, with neither party mounting coordinated legislative action to assert congressional authority over military operations. The stalemate reflects deep partisan splits over whether the conflict serves U.S. interests, even as constituents signal discontent in polls. Congress has constitutional war powers but has historically struggled to enforce them against sitting presidents who frame military actions as defensive or counterterrorism operations. The absence of formal debate leaves the Trump administration's military decisions largely unchecked by the legislative branch.