What's happened
The US Senate has approved the repeal of the 2003 Iraq invasion authorization, marking a significant step in ending the long-standing war. The move also includes repeals of the 1991 Gulf War and 2002 Iraq resolutions, with the aim of preventing future military overreach. The legislation now awaits House approval and presidential sign-off.
What's behind the headline?
The bipartisan support for repealing the Iraq war resolutions signals a significant shift in US military policy. This legislation establishes Congress's prerogative to authorize and end military conflicts, reducing executive overreach. It also underscores a recognition that the Iraq war, which resulted in hundreds of thousands of Iraqi deaths and nearly 5,000 US troop fatalities, was a strategic mistake. The move may influence future military interventions by emphasizing legislative control. However, the potential impact on US foreign policy remains uncertain, especially if President Trump opposes the repeal, as he previously relied on Iraq resolutions for military actions. The legislation's passage suggests a growing bipartisan consensus on ending 'forever wars,' but the real test will be in implementation and how it shapes US engagement in the Middle East.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that the Senate's approval of the Iraq war resolution repeal is a historic step, emphasizing bipartisan support and the importance of congressional authority in military conflicts. AP News highlights the unanimous Senate vote and the significance of ending the long-standing war, noting the previous support for similar measures. The New Arab also discusses the broader context of US military authorizations, including the 1991 Gulf War and the 2002 Iraq resolution, and the potential political implications if President Trump opposes the legislation. These sources collectively portray a moment of bipartisan consensus, but also hint at ongoing political debates about US military power and foreign policy direction.
How we got here
The 2003 Iraq invasion was initially justified by claims of weapons of mass destruction, which were later discredited. Over the years, multiple resolutions authorized US military actions, but growing bipartisan consensus now seeks to formally end these authorizations. The move reflects a broader effort to limit executive war powers and address the long-term consequences of the Iraq conflict.
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