In a high-stakes decision that has drawn both praise and criticism, former President Donald Trump announced that a U.S. military operation had successfully targeted and disabled three Iranian nuclear sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The strike, according to the Trump administration at the time, was not an act of war but a strategic response to what was described as an imminent security threat.
The move ignited a strong response from congressional leaders, reigniting discussions about the scope of executive military power. Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi expressed concerns about the constitutionality of the action, emphasizing that Congress had not authorized the strike. She warned that unilateral decisions of this nature could increase risks for American personnel abroad and contribute to regional instability.
Pelosi’s remarks drew comparisons to similar military actions in previous administrations. In 2011, then-President Barack Obama authorized limited military engagement in Libya, which received differing reactions across party lines.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries also raised objections, questioning the transparency of the decision-making process and the lack of prior approval. While reports indicated that Jeffries declined an official briefing, White House representatives stated that congressional leadership had been informed in advance, in accordance with established protocols.
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