Boehner warns Obama on Libya war

House Speaker John Boehner finishes a news conference following a political strategy session on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, June 14, 2011.

Source: Press TV
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/184732.html

US House Speaker John Boehner has asked President Barack Obama to either end US mission in Libya or seek congressional authorization for continuing operations beyond June 19.

“It would appear that in five days, the administration will be in violation of the War Powers Resolution unless it asks for and receives authorization from Congress or withdraws all US troops and resources from the mission (in Libya), Boehner said in a letter on Tuesday.

Boehner, a Republican, asked Obama to explain the legal grounds for further operations in Libya by Friday, June 17, Reuters reported.

The 1973 War Powers Resolution provides that US armed forces cannot remain in military actions over 60 days-with a further 30-day withdrawal period-- without getting consent from the Congress.

Earlier this month, the House voted to censure Obama for not seeking congressional approval and accused the president of not providing a “compelling rationale” for the military campaign in Libya. The House's resolution also demanded information about costs and scope of the mission.

The Obama administration had said it provided answers regarding the Libya mission at various briefings in the House. However, the White House pledged last week to respond to detailed questions on the issue within the deadline.

The US plays a significant role in the NATO-led operations in Libya by carrying out airstrikes, refueling warplanes and providing intelligence.