FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 18, 2025

CONTACT: press@iava.org

As Tensions Rise Between Israel and Iran, IAVA Reaffirms Support for Repealing Open-Ended War Authorizations

Backs Bipartisan Joint Resolution Introduced June 17th to End 2002 AUMF and Reassert Congressional War Powers

Washington, DC – In light of escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is reaffirming its strong support for repealing and reforming outdated Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs). AUMFs from 1991, 2001, and 2002 have been stretched far beyond their original intent. Today, IAVA is proud to endorse the bipartisan joint resolution, H.Con.Res.38, introduced by Representatives Thomas Massie (R-Ky) and Ro Khanna (D-CA). This bipartisan effort is a vital step toward restoring Congress’s constitutional responsibility over decisions of war and peace—an authority that has been dangerously eroded over the past two decades. 

“This is a critical moment,” said Dr. Kyleanne Hunter, CEO of IAVA and Marine Corps combat veteran. “As the situation between Israel and Iran intensifies, we must ensure that the United States is not pulled into another war under an outdated authorization that Congress hasn’t debated in over two decades. Today’s bipartisan joint resolution is a step toward restoring the balance of powers our Constitution demands and our veterans deserve.”

The joint resolution, introduced with bipartisan support in both chambers, would require new congressional authorization before engaging in military action related to current tensions in Iran, underscoring the growing bipartisan consensus that war powers must return to the legislative branch. 

IAVA has consistently advocated for repealing outdated war authorizations and ending the era of endless war. The organization believes no future conflict, especially in a volatile region like the Middle East, should be launched under a decades-old law written for a different time and a different mission. The possibility of U.S. engagement in another regional war without thoughtful deliberation or a vote by the people’s representatives is unacceptable. 

“Our members know the costs of war firsthand,” said Dr. Hunter. “They deserve a country that sends troops into conflict only after careful deliberation and with full accountability. Congress must reassert its role, and this joint resolution is a meaningful, bipartisan step in that direction.”

IAVA is closely watching the progress of Senator Kaine’s (D-VA) Iran war powers resolution,  S.J.Res.59. We encourage our Republican members of the Senate to join this crucial effort to reassert and urge all lawmakers to support these resolutions and reaffirm the foundational principle that decisions of war must be made through a deliberate, democratic process, not unilaterally. Our veterans and active-duty troops deserve nothing less.

For media inquiries, please contact:
press@iava.org
(212) 982-9699

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the leading voice of the Post-9/11 generation of American veterans. We represent over 425,000 members, and our best-in-class, non-partisan advocacy on behalf of the post-9/11 generation of veterans has chalked up big wins for our community – and America – for 20 years and counting.

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