Directing the President, pursuant to the War Powers Resolution, to comply with the 60-day use of force and 30-day phased withdrawal requirements regarding the use of the United States Armed Forces in Operation Epic Fury in Iran.

H.J.Res.156 was introduced in the House on April 16, 2026, and subsequently referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. This joint resolution aims to direct the President to adhere to the 60-day use of force and 30-day phased withdrawal requirements of the War Powers Resolution concerning Operation Epic Fury in Iran. The bill highlights findings such as Iran's role as a state sponsor of terrorism, its threat to the U.S., human rights abuses, nuclear activities, and the commencement of Operation Epic Fury on February 28, 2026, which involved airstrikes and the assassination of Iranian officials, leading to retaliatory attacks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This bill does not authorize or appropriate any specific funding. Instead, it seeks to terminate the use of military force in Operation Epic Fury, which would have a direct impact on current military expenditures related to the operation. The mechanism is a legislative directive to the President under the War Powers Resolution, aiming to force a withdrawal of U.S. forces. As an early-stage bill, its passage is not guaranteed, and it faces a long legislative path through committee and both chambers of Congress. The structural winners and losers would primarily be within the Defense and Energy sectors. A withdrawal of U.S. forces from Operation Epic Fury could reduce demand for certain defense services and equipment, potentially affecting major defense contractors. Conversely, a de-escalation of conflict in the Middle East could stabilize global energy markets, potentially leading to lower oil prices, which would impact Energy sector companies. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, as noted in the bill, already indicates significant disruption to global shipping and oil transit, impacting the Finance sector through insurance and trade financing. As of today, April 18, 2026, the bill is in its initial stage, having only been referred to committee. The next legislative steps would involve committee hearings, potential markups, and a vote in the House Foreign Affairs Committee. If it passes committee, it would then proceed to a vote by the full House. Given the nature of the bill, it is likely to face significant debate and potential opposition, particularly from the executive branch and those who support the ongoing military operation.