Can a new US Congress mean an end to the Iran war?

Congress cannot unilaterally end the war, but it controls federal spending. Trump has sought to raise the defense budget from about $950 billion to $1.5 trillion, plus $67 billion for the war; Democrats say they will not approve such a large budget and have proposed cutting off war funding. The current funding bill expires December 11, creating a deadline for lawmakers to pass a budget or short-term spending plan.

Trump launched the war alongside Israel on February 28 without congressional approval. Democrats and a few Republicans have repeatedly backed war powers resolutions to end the fighting unless Trump seeks authorization; one passed both chambers, but his administration ignored it, and legal experts disagreed on whether it was binding. Democrats expect further votes and legislation, though Trump is expected to veto measures to stop the war, and overriding a veto would require two-thirds majorities in both chambers.

Democrats may hold hearings and investigate the administration’s war strategy, spending and conduct once they control congressional committees, which can issue subpoenas. They may also try again to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, after an effort led by Republican Representative Thomas Massie failed this week. The poll found 93% of Democrats and 51% of Republicans favor legislation ending the conflict.