Republican and Democratic senators strongly disagree about Donald Trump’s recent bombing of Iranian nuclear sites after a delayed secret briefing on Thursday.
The White House had postponed the briefing earlier, causing criticism from Democrats who said Trump was blocking Congress from knowing about his military actions.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer called the delay “outrageous” and said the administration must fully inform Congress about such decisions.
During the briefing, Trump posted on Truth Social accusing Democrats of leaking a Pentagon report. The report said the strikes only delayed Iran’s nuclear program by months, contradicting Trump’s claim that it was “obliterated.” Trump called for the leakers to be prosecuted.
The briefing was led by CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Intelligence experts differed on how effective the strikes were.
Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump supporter, said the strikes caused “major-league” damage and set Iran’s nuclear program back by years. But he warned the threat remains as long as Iran wants a nuclear weapon.
Democrats, including Senator Chris Murphy and Chuck Schumer, said the briefing gave no clear answers or strategy. They want Congress to enforce the War Powers Act to limit the president’s ability to act without approval.
Some Republicans, like Rand Paul, also criticized Trump, saying the Constitution does not allow presidents to start wars alone.
The Senate plans to vote soon on a resolution requiring congressional approval for future military actions against Iran, but it may not pass due to Republican control.
The White House admitted limiting intelligence sharing after the leak of the Pentagon draft. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said officials want to protect classified information.
Trump officially notified Congress about the strikes two days after they happened. The administration says it still seeks diplomatic talks with Iran through a special envoy.
