The War Powers Resolution, also known as the War Powers Act, is a federal law that was enacted in 1973 to limit the President's authority to commit the United States to military conflicts without congressional approval. The resolution requires the President to notify Congress within 48 hours of initiating any significant military action and limits the duration of such actions to 60 days, with an additional 30-day extension possible under certain circumstances.

The War Powers Resolution was passed in response to concerns about presidential abuse of power during the Vietnam War, when President Lyndon B. Johnson escalated U.S. involvement in the conflict without seeking formal authorization from Congress. Since its passage, the resolution has been invoked numerous times by presidents of both parties, often sparking controversy and legal challenges over its scope and application.

Despite its intent to constrain executive power, the effectiveness of the War Powers Resolution has been limited due to ambiguities in its language and inconsistent implementation. Presidents have frequently argued that their constitutional powers as commander-in-chief supersede the restrictions imposed by the resolution, while members of Congress have disagreed over whether and how to enforce it. In recent years, debates around the War Powers Resolution have centered on issues like unauthorized military interventions, drone strikes, and covert operations, raising questions about the proper balance between executive and legislative branch authority in matters of war and peace.