Washington, Feb 26 (NationPress) The divide between Republicans and Democrats intensified over Iran on Thursday, as Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed his support for President Donald Trump’s strategy, while House Democrats sought to initiate a vote on a resolution that would restrict any military engagement.

During an appearance on Fox News, Thune stated, “This president is dedicated to ensuring safer streets, providing greater financial resources for the American populace, and creating new opportunities for citizens to thrive.”

On matters of foreign policy, he remarked, “I believe the president is preparing us to safeguard America’s critical national security interests, both regionally and domestically. We cannot allow, we cannot tolerate a nuclear Iran… [President Trump] emphasized that in his speech last night, and I think that’s a sentiment that resonates with a substantial majority of Americans.”

Thune further noted that the United States has “crucial interests in that region” and asserted that the President is aiming for “peace through strength by ensuring that America has the right resources positioned properly, if necessary. Hopefully, it won’t come to that. If the Iranians are willing to negotiate, I believe there may be an opportunity for an agreement.”

Simultaneously, Democratic leaders in the House declared their intent to force a vote on the bipartisan Khanna-Massie Iran War Powers Resolution when Congress reconvenes next week.

“Upon Congress’s return, we will demand a vote from the full House of Representatives on the bipartisan Khanna-Massie War Powers resolution,” Democratic leaders announced in a joint statement.

“This legislation mandates that the President must seek Congressional approval before deploying military force against Iran,” they explained.

“We firmly believe that any such action would violate the Constitution without consultation and authorization from Congress. Next week, every Member will have the chance to publicly state their position on military action against Iran without Congressional consent.”

In the Senate, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged the administration to provide clearer objectives as U.S. and Iranian officials engaged in discussions in Geneva.

“The administration must be transparent and inform the American people about its goals regarding Iran,” Schumer stated on the Senate floor.

“I have consistently maintained that addressing Iran and curbing its nuclear ambitions necessitates a comprehensive strategy, transparency, and clarity. However, so far, we have received none of that from the administration. The American public deserves clarity.”

Meanwhile, Senators Jacky Rosen and Dave McCormick introduced the bipartisan Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act aimed at increasing pressure on Tehran following internet blackouts and a crackdown on protests.

“The citizens of Iran are forced to endure a repressive regime that employs censorship and internet blackouts to undermine their resistance,” Rosen stated.

“The future of Iran should be determined by its people, who are entitled to have their rights safeguarded and access to information unhindered.”

McCormick added that the legislation “reinforces America’s commitment to support the Iranian populace against a regime that is economically, militarily, and morally bankrupt.”