House Approves War Powers Resolution Against Iran
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a war powers resolution on Wednesday, aiming to halt military actions against Iran. This marked a significant challenge to President Donald Trump as some Republicans joined Democrats to call for an end to the ongoing conflict.
Two weeks ago, House leader Mike Johnson attempted to prevent the resolution’s passage by abruptly closing the session. Still, dissatisfaction grew as the conflict persisted and Trump struggled to negotiate peace.
The vote concluded at 215-208, with uncertainty about future actions. President Trump is expected to oppose any Congressional attempts to curb his military authority. Despite this, the resolution, backed by four Republicans, served as a rebuke of the president’s war strategy, sparking cheers in the legislative chamber.
Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries stated, “This reckless and costly war was chosen voluntarily and must end today.” He noted that the war has cost U.S. taxpayers over $100 billion, weakening America’s position against Iran.
The House’s effort marks a fourth attempt to curtail the U.S.-Iran conflict.
Last month, the Senate introduced its own war powers resolution. A few Republican senators broke ranks to support it, signaling unusual political resistance within the GOP. Increased political anxiety about the war has bolstered the vote tallies supporting the resolution.
Despite pledges to end foreign military involvement, Trump’s focus has shifted back to the Middle East. Johnson emphasized Trump’s dedication to domestic issues, especially with upcoming midterm elections that could change Congressional control.
Johnson mentioned spending three hours at the White House with the president, who is working to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for trade, particularly oil flow. Following U.S. cooperation with Israel to attack Iran on February 28, Americans experienced rising gas prices, adding to inflationary pressures as Iran disrupted maritime transport through the important channel.
While a ceasefire was declared in April, its status remains fragile. Efforts for a lasting resolution face challenges from Israel’s extended conflict with Hezbollah militants, supported by Tehran. Meanwhile, U.S.-Iran military skirmishes continue sporadically.
The House resolution presents a symbolic stance against further military actions but lacks legal force. It proceeds to the Senate, where last month, four Republican senators supported a similar measure to curb U.S. campaigns against Iran. However, the Senate has yet to conduct a final vote on its resolution.
In a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned that such Congressional moves might restrain the administration’s ability to take military action, affecting negotiations with Iran.
Beyond this resolution, Democrats are seeking Republican backing for other security measures. The House also plans to vote on a Democrat-led initiative to support military operations in Ukraine and aid its reconstruction. Additionally, this week, the House will review a war powers resolution aimed at limiting Washington’s actions in Lebanon.
The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the authority to declare war, but the president, as commander in chief, also holds military action powers, creating legal disputes over decision-making authority in war and peace matters.
Under the War Powers Act, the White House has 60 days to seek Congressional approval for military actions. However, the administration argues that the current ceasefire in Iran means hostilities have ceased.