Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) stated Tuesday that Congress should not consider legislation to restrict President Trump from using military action against Iran at this time.

“I believe we’re rushing into this,” Thune told reporters on Capitol Hill regarding whether a war powers resolution should be brought to a vote in the Senate.

“The recent escalation between Iran and Israel has occurred in just the past few days,” the South Dakota senator explained. “The President’s actions are within his authority, and I support that.”

He added that if the conflict persists for an extended period, more comprehensive discussions regarding Congress’s role and possible actions could be initiated.

Thune expressed hope that Iran would agree to dismantle its nuclear program, saying, “Let’s hope Iran will engage in negotiations and agree to end their nuclear pursuits.”

While the Trump administration denies involvement in Israel’s recent strikes against Iran, rhetoric against Iran has intensified, with reports indicating the president has been urged by Israel to target Tehran’s underground Fordow facility.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) introduced legislation on Monday aimed at preventing war with Iran.

In the House, progressive Democrats, known as the “Squad,” support companion legislation sponsored by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.).

“Only Congress has the constitutional authority to declare war,” Massie emphasized. “The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran should not be a matter for the President alone, and Congress must decide per the Constitution.”

Legislation is also backed by Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Summer Lee (D-Pa.), and Ayanna Presley (D-Mass.).

No Republicans have yet co-sponsored Massie’s bill.