Does Trump have to submit the Iran memorandum of understanding to Congress?

Calls are mounting for President Donald Trump to submit a recent memorandum of understanding with Iran to Congress, a move supported by lawmakers and pro-Israel groups. They argue that the agreement, aimed at ending the US-Iran conflict, should undergo congressional review, citing the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (INARA) of 2015 as a legal precedent.

INARA mandates that any agreements with Iran concerning its nuclear program must be presented to Congress for review and a potential vote of disapproval. This law was enacted during former President Barack Obama's administration as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was being negotiated. It remains in effect today.

Senator Lindsey Graham, a vocal critic of Iran's nuclear ambitions, publicly stated, "Under our law, any nuclear deal with Iran will be sent to Congress for review and a vote. I look forward to reviewing the final product." The INARA law requires the president to submit any agreement with Iran to Congress within five days, initiating a 30-day review period. During this time, Congress can attempt to pass a resolution of disapproval, though such a resolution would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override a presidential veto.

However, some critics, including certain Democrats and peace advocates, have questioned this renewed emphasis on congressional authority. They note that Republicans frequently bypassed legislative powers during the conflict with Iran. These observers suggest the push for review might be an attempt to legitimize the MoU, especially as Trump faces criticism over its terms. Others speculate that Iran hawks are using INARA to advocate for a return to hostilities.

The core of the debate lies in interpreting INARA's scope. The law applies to any agreement between the US and Iran "related to the nuclear program of Iran," regardless of its form or legal bindingness. The law also stipulates that during the review period, the president cannot waive or reduce sanctions against Iran as part of the agreement. The specifics of the current MoU and whether it directly pertains to Iran's nuclear activities are central to the ongoing discussion.

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Under our law, any nuclear deal with Iran will be sent to Congress for review and a vote. I look forward to reviewing the final product.