Does President Bush have the constitutional authority to attack Iran at this point?

Question

I think we all know that there are some hawks in the Bush admin, possibly including Bush himself, who would like to attack Iran. But could President Bush just decide to launch air strikes or some other military offesive against Iran without approval of the congress?

Of course, the President can attack a country if they are attacking the USA, or are posing an imminent threat, but Iran really isn't doing that.

Would it be legal for Bush to give the order to attack Iran?

Answer 1

I am afraid he does have the authority as he is the Commander and Chief, the scary part is that he is also a Lame Duck President that does not have to worry about his place in history because he will for ever more be the WORST President in history!

Answer 2

Yes, he does. Just like Bill Clinton had the constitutional authority to attack Bosnia, to launch missile strikes on Afghanistan. Just like Bush 41 had the constitutional authority to invade Kuwait and Iraq, and Reagan had the authority to invade Grenada, and Carter had the authority to send forces to Tehran for Desert One, and Nixon had authority to bomb North Vietnam, and Johnson had the authority to do the same, and Kennedy to invade Cuba. . . .

Answer 3

For as long as Americans don't unite to say NO to Mr. Bush, yes he will.

Answer 4

I'm afraid he can. But congress can hold back the money to continue the war.