Congress Ready to Act if Iran Conflict Escalates, Lawler Says

Congress Vows Action as Iran Conflict Continues

New York Republican Congressman Mike Lawler stated on Sunday that Congress is prepared to take “necessary action” if the ongoing conflict with Iran escalates or extends beyond a certain timeframe. Speaking on “Meet the Press,” Lawler addressed both the recent military rescue of an American pilot in Iran and the broader implications of U.S. involvement, emphasizing Congress’s role and responsibilities.

Praise for Military Rescue Operation

Lawler began by expressing strong approval for the recent military operation that successfully rescued a second pilot whose fighter jet had been shot down over Iran. He called the news “fantastic” for the country and the airmen’s families. “It speaks to the courage, the bravery and the commitment to service of our armed forces,” Lawler said, calling them the “greatest armed forces anywhere in the world.” He commended President Trump for taking “decisive action” to ensure no troops were left behind.

Debate Over Ground Troops and War Powers

The congressman discussed the possibility of U.S. ground troops in Iran, noting that President Trump had not ruled out the option. Lawler suggested that any deployment of troops on the ground would need a clear purpose, such as retrieving enriched uranium. He stressed that such a plan would require discussion and briefing with Congress in a classified setting.

Lawler also pushed back against criticisms, particularly from Democrats like Senator Tim Kaine, that the military operation was illegal. He asserted that the President is “fully within his authority” under the War Powers Act, which allows for military operations for 60 to 90 days, with Congress being notified within 48 hours. Lawler criticized the comparison to Democratic support for the Libya operation under President Obama, calling it “hypocritical.”

“For Tim Kaine or any other Democrat to say this is illegal, especially after so many Democrats including Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi supported Barack Obama’s seven-month war in Libya is just hypocritical at best and they are gaslighting the American people when they talk about this.”
Rep. Mike Lawler

Congressional Authority and Funding

Addressing concerns from Republicans like Senator John Curtis of Utah, who argued that Congress has the explicit right to declare war, Lawler acknowledged that if the conflict extends beyond the 60-day window of the War Powers Act, Congress would indeed need to take action. “If it goes beyond the 60-day window then yes, Congress will have to take necessary action, and I will support that,” he stated.

However, Lawler defended the administration’s actions over the past five weeks, stating that objectives have been met. He detailed significant successes, including eliminating much of Iran’s leadership and IRGC forces, destroying their air defenses, ballistic missile program, drone programs, and naval fleet. These actions, he argued, were crucial steps to prevent a nuclear Iran.

When pressed about voting for new funding for a war Congress has not formally approved, Lawler affirmed his support for funding the military. He explained that Congress continually funds military operations through the appropriations process. “We will continue to ensure that our armed forces have the resources that they need to conduct military operations and so we will go through that,” he said, confirming he would vote to fund the military.

Homeland Security Funding Stalemate

The interview also touched upon the ongoing funding fight for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which had been facing a shutdown. Lawler blamed Democrats for the situation, stating they made a “calculated decision to shut down the Department because they do not want to enforce our immigration laws.” He highlighted the tragic death of 18-year-old Sheridon Gorman in his district, allegedly killed by an undocumented immigrant who had been released after being apprehended.

Lawler argued that Democrats are unwilling to fund agencies like ICE and Customs and Border Patrol, leading to dangerous consequences. He shared the example of Jose Medina, stating that individuals like him would be allowed to enter the country and harm Americans if these agencies are not fully funded. “That is wrong. I will not stand for it and that is why we are pushing back against this,” he declared.

Responding to the question of whether House Speaker Mike Johnson should call Congress back to address the DHS funding, Lawler countered that the House had passed DHS funding four times. He clarified that the issue is not a lack of funding for the entire department, but rather specific funding for ICE and Customs and Border Patrol. “You cannot defund elements of our Homeland Security,” he stated, promising that upon Congress’s return, they would work to ensure these critical agencies are fully funded.

Looking Ahead

As Congress prepares to return, the focus will be on resolving the Department of Homeland Security funding and addressing any further developments in the Iran conflict. Lawler’s remarks indicate a strong stance on national security and a willingness to support military funding, while also emphasizing the need for clear congressional oversight and defined purposes for any extended military engagements.

Source: GOP Rep. Mike Lawler says Congress will take ‘necessary action’ if Iran war drags on: Full interview (YouTube)