**Who Holds the Power to Declare War in the US? A Look at the Tussle Between the President and Congress** In the United States, a long-standing debate has been ongoing between the President and Congress over who has the authority to declare war. This issue has come to the forefront once again with the recent escalation of tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran. President Donald Trump's decision to launch strikes on Iran has been met with criticism from Democrats, who argue that he bypassed Congress's authority to do so. Under the US Constitution, Congress is given the sole power to declare war. However, Presidents have often taken the initiative to launch military actions, citing the need for self-defence. In the case of Iran, Trump's administration claims that the country posed an imminent threat, justifying the strikes. However, Trump's critics point out that he failed to provide a clear explanation of the reasons behind the war and its endgame. The debate has been reflected in a vote by Republican senators and one Democrat, who rejected a Democratic-led war powers resolution aimed at halting further US action in Iran. The resolution was met with a 53-47 vote, with supporters arguing that Trump exceeded his constitutional authority by launching the war. In a surprising twist, the director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, resigned over the war with Iran, citing his inability to support it in good conscience. Kent's resignation highlights the divisions within the US administration over the conflict. This tussle between the President and Congress is not new. For decades, Presidents have bypassed Congress's authority, leading to a power struggle between the two branches of government. The debate has significant implications for the US's role in global conflicts and its relationship with other countries. In the Nigerian context, the situation highlights the importance of checks and balances in governance. The separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches of government is a crucial aspect of democracy, ensuring that no single institution holds too much power. The US example serves as a reminder of the need for robust oversight and accountability in government, particularly in matters of national security and foreign policy.