Effort to repeal resolutions authorizing military force splits Senate Republicans

OOnly 11 of the 100 current senators were present in Congress when the House & Senate voted in January 1991 to authorize President George H.W. military force. Bush to expel Saddam Hussein, the strongman in Iraqi politics, from occupied Kuwait.

The Gulf War Act, which was at that time the most explicit authorization by Congress of war since the Tonkin Gulf Resolution in 1964 approved U.S military involvement in Vietnam, is still in force. Its follow-up, which was approved in October 2002, comes almost 12 years later. Just over a year ago, the attacks on American soil claimed nearly 3,000 lives. Congress passed a resolution which authorized the U.S.-led invasion in March 2003. The operation overthrew Hussein’s government, but it also led to years and years of bloody resistance. This, along with other consequences, reshaped American politics for many years.

Sens from both sides now believe it’s time for the end of those and other Authorization for Use of Military Forces resolutions. Advocates claim that they are unnecessary and would cause problems in current diplomatic situations, such as having an all-allied government in Iraq. Critics argue that this would indicate weakness to U.S. rivals. According to this argument, Iran would consider the move a sign that the U.S. is not able to resolve its problems in the region.

Republicans are less united than Democrats in backing the repeal of AUMF Resolutions. This is a reflection of the cleavages between populist nationalists and conservative hawkish Republicans, as embodied in former President Donald Trump.

On March 8, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee brought this issue to a head A bill was advanced That would end the wars in Iraq and Gulf. It’s a move that is sure to be appreciated by all. revives efforts These issues have been the subject of much debate for nearly two decades.

Committee members passed the bill with a 13-8 vote, setting the stage for it to be introduced to the full Senate for consideration — giving hope to lawmakers the legislation may finally take hold. The legislation, if passed, would repeal two authorizations for military force that allowed the United States Congress to enter the conflict in Iraq. It also reduces the president’s unilateral authority in this area to deploy troops.

“Later this month, we will mark the 20th anniversary