Democratic win in Congress could open door to Trump accountability over Iran war, says analyst

International affairs consultant Amal Mudallali said that a Democratic majority in both the US House of Representatives and Senate following the midterm elections could pave the way for extensive investigations and accountability measures targeting President Donald Trump. She added that Democrats may also seek to revisit a resolution restricting his military authority in the conflict with Iran, requiring congressional approval for military operations.

Speaking in an interview with Al Arabiya FM, Mudallali explained that Democratic control of both chambers would shift the balance of power between the White House and Congress, potentially reviving the war powers resolution that would oblige the president to obtain congressional consent before entering into war.

However, she ruled out the possibility that a Republican loss of majority would lead to an immediate or direct change in the course of the war, noting that Trump would not necessarily yield to congressional pressure. She said: "He won't listen to anyone. He will do what he wants."

Mudallali added that Trump could resort to using his veto power against Democratic-led decisions and bills, whether related to halting the war or other issues, and might also rely on executive orders that do not require congressional approval, according to her assessment.

She believes the greater impact of a Republican defeat may emerge over time, as Trump becomes preoccupied with investigations Democrats intend to launch, which could include efforts to hold administration officials accountable or dismiss the Secretary of Defense.

Mudallali continued that reports about Trump preparing for a possible Republican loss suggest, in her view, that he is considering the use of vetoes and executive orders to continue implementing his policies despite the shift in congressional power.

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The international affairs consultant stressed that these developments could increase political pressure on Trump and limit his room for maneuver, but do not necessarily mean an end to the war or an immediate change in his military decisions.