Van Orden: Trump’s Military Operations in Iran Are Fully Within Constitutional Authority

Rep. Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin defended President Donald Trump’s authority to conduct military operations in Iran during a Saturday interview, dismissing criticism from fellow lawmakers amid debate over Congress’ war powers.

Van Orden described Representatives Ro Khanna of California and Thomas Massie of Kentucky as “barking up the wrong tree” after Massie posted on X that he would work with Khanna to force a Congressional vote on war with Iran.

“President Donald Trump has shown incredible, bold leadership here,” Van Orden stated. “So I fundamentally disagree with Mr. Ro Khanna and with Thomas Massie.”

He emphasized the president was acting “completely within his constitutionally enumerated powers and within the legislation passed by Congress.”

Van Orden referenced the 1973 War Powers Resolution, noting it requires reporting to Congress within 48 hours of any military operations but does not require congressional authorization until after 60 days have elapsed. “Multiple presidents have ignored this timeline to begin with,” he added. “If there’s boots on the ground in Iran, you have an additional 30 days to get them out without authorization from Congress.”

The veteran, who spent three decades in the military including as a Navy SEAL, asserted active-duty service members conducting operations “have absolutely everything they need” to carry out their missions safely and return home. He also highlighted Iran’s sponsorship of groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis—proxy forces that have fueled regional instability and targeted U.S. allies.

“It’s time for this to end,” Van Orden concluded.