S.J.Res. 123 — A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

This section states nine congressional findings concerning constitutional war powers, the War Powers Resolution (50 U.S.C. 1541 et seq.), and Operation Epic Fury. Specifically, the findings declare that (1) Congress has the sole power to declare war; (2) the President must defend the United States, its territories, possessions, citizens, service members, and diplomats from attack; (3) Congress has not declared war on Iran or authorized the use of force there; (4) the War Powers Resolution ensures collective congressional and presidential judgment on introducing U.S. Armed Forces into hostilities; (5) the President must consult Congress before such introduction; (6) on February 28, 2026, the Trump administration launched Operation Epic Fury, described as major combat operations against Iran, with uncertain scope and duration; (7) as of March 9, 2026, seven U.S. service members have been killed in the operation, with more likely; (8) such use of force constitutes introduction into hostilities under the War Powers Resolution; and (9) certain resolutions requiring removal of forces are eligible for expedited procedures under specified law (50 U.S.C. 1546a).

This section directs the President, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1546a (which provides expedited congressional procedures for resolutions requiring removal of U.S. Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities abroad), to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran unless explicitly authorized by a declaration of war or specific authorization for use of military force.

This section provides a rule of construction clarifying that nothing in the resolution prevents the United States from (1) defending against attacks on the United States or its personnel or facilities abroad; (2) collecting, analyzing, or sharing intelligence related to threats from Iran or its proxies, including with Israel, U.S. partners and allies, and international organizations as appropriate; (3) assisting partner countries attacked by Iran since February 28, 2026, and other nations with defensive measures against retaliatory attacks by Iran or its proxies, including defensive materiel support; or (4) providing assistance for the security, departure, and evacuation of U.S. citizens affected by the hostilities.