Divisions grow as US senator sets conditions on war funding

Republican Senator John Curtis said he “cannot support funding for further military operations” in the conflict with Iran unless Congress formally declares war. 

“While I support maintaining our readiness and replenishing stockpiles, I cannot support funding for further military operations without a formal declaration of war from Congress,” he said on X.

The Utah senator added that while he backs President Donald Trump’s military campaign, “We must be clear-eyed about history and the Constitution.”

His remarks come as cracks emerge among congressional Republicans, with some lawmakers questioning the cost of prolonging the conflict and others demanding a clearer White House strategy.

I stand by the President’s actions taken in defense of our national security interests in the Middle East. But we must be clear-eyed about history and the Constitution. While I support maintaining our readiness and replenishing stockpiles, I cannot support funding for further…

— Senator John Curtis (@SenJohnCurtis) April 3, 2026