The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a major resolution aimed at restricting President Donald Trump’s ability to launch military action against Iran without congressional approval, marking a rare bipartisan challenge to presidential war powers.
The War Powers resolution, introduced by Democrats, passed 215-208 in Washington on Wednesday, with four Republicans breaking ranks to support it. Despite Republicans holding majorities in both chambers, the vote is being widely interpreted as a sharp political rebuke to the President.
The measure calls for an end to the ongoing conflict with Iran unless Congress explicitly authorises further military action. Although the resolution is unlikely to become law it would need two‑thirds support in both chambers to overcome an expected Trump veto analysts say the vote sends a symbolic but powerful message. Three previous attempts failed in the House, though each time the margin narrowed.
President Trump did not seek congressional approval before taking military action in Iran, describing the confrontation as a “minor conflict” or “short‑term military operation.” His continued use of force has frustrated some lawmakers, who note that the U.S. Constitution grants Congress not the President the sole authority to declare war.
Wednesday’s vote marked the fourth attempt this year to act under the War Powers Act. A scheduled vote on May 21 was abruptly cancelled when Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson adjourned the session early.
The conflict began on February 28, when Israel and the United States launched strikes against Iran. Saturday will mark 100 days since the fighting began. Although a temporary ceasefire has been in place since April 8, both sides have continued to exchange missile and drone attacks during this period.
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