US House delivers rebuke to Trump as it votes to halt Iran war

US House Passes Resolution on Limiting Military Actions in Iran

The US House of Representatives voted 215-208 on Wednesday to adopt a war powers resolution directing President Donald Trump to end US military involvement in Iran or obtain congressional approval to continue operations. Four Republicans joined Democrats in support of the measure.

The resolution is non-binding in practical effect. The White House has stated that the measure represents an unconstitutional restriction on presidential authority. Legal experts have noted that concurrent resolutions of this type, if also approved by the Senate, would not require the president's signature but could face court challenges over separation of powers.

The vote occurred amid rising domestic fuel prices and public opposition to continued involvement. This marked the fourth House effort to address the scope of US military actions in the conflict. The Senate passed a similar measure in May but has not scheduled a floor vote.

The four Republicans who supported the resolution were Thomas Massie, Brian Fitzpatrick, Tom Barrett, and Warren Davidson. Democrat Jared Golden of Maine, who had opposed prior versions, voted in favor this time. Barrett stated that Congress holds the constitutional power to declare war and that he votes according to his assessment of the issue.

House Foreign Affairs Committee ranking member Gregory Meeks, a Democrat and co-sponsor, said the vote reflected constituent opposition to extended military commitments in the Middle East. Meeks also stated that the administration had not met the conflict's initial objectives and that fuel costs had increased.

The United States and Israel conducted strikes against Iran beginning February 28. Iran responded with attacks on Israel and US-allied Gulf states and restricted access through the Strait of Hormuz. In April the United States imposed a blockade on vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports. An initial ceasefire was announced on April 8. Subsequent US strikes have occurred, with Iranian responses including attacks on Kuwait.

President Trump told reporters on Wednesday that negotiations to conclude the conflict were advancing and could be completed within days. He described recent US actions as responses to prior events and said administration officials sought an agreement that would avoid further casualties. The president stated that talks had progressed to the point where the parties were close to signing an agreement.

The resolution's passage reflects divisions within the Republican conference on the conduct of the Iran operation. It follows an earlier instance in which some Republican members opposed administration plans for a proposed $1.8 billion fund. If the Senate adopts the concurrent resolution, the measure would express the view of both chambers without creating new statutory requirements.

The White House has maintained that the president retains authority to direct military operations in defense of US interests and those of allies. Administration officials have described the ongoing diplomatic channel as the primary path to de-escalation.