The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a resolution aimed at halting American military action against Iran. This move challenges President Donald Trump, as some Republicans joined Democrats in seeking to end the three-month conflict.
House Speaker Mike Johnson previously attempted to prevent the resolution from passing by abruptly ending proceedings. However, opposition has grown as the conflict continues and Trump struggles to negotiate a peace plan. The vote was 215-208, with four Republicans siding with Democrats, signaling disapproval of Trump’s military strategy.
Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries emphasized the need to end what he called a reckless and costly war, pointing out that it has cost American taxpayers over $100 billion and weakened the country’s position against Iran.
This war, chosen by decision, must end today.
This marks the fourth attempt by the House to curb the U.S. engagement in Iran. The Senate recently pushed its own resolution as some Republican senators broke ranks with Trump. Each effort has seen growing support as political unease over the conflict mounts.
Trump initially campaigned on ending U.S. involvement in foreign wars to focus on domestic issues. However, Middle Eastern conflicts have regained attention. Johnson stated that Trump remains focused on domestic priorities, especially with upcoming midterm elections that will affect Congressional control.
Following a U.S. and Israel attack on Iran on February 28, gasoline prices surged, adding to inflation pressures. Iran disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for global oil and natural gas, impacting trade.
“Everyone has an interest in reopening the Strait of Hormuz,” commented Republican Johnson.
A ceasefire declared in April remains fragile. Peace talks have stalled, complicated by expanded Israeli military action against Hezbollah in Lebanon, backed by Tehran. U.S. and Iranian military clashes intermittently resurface.
The House resolution on war powers is symbolic, lacking legal force to end the conflict. It now goes to the Senate, where Republicans and Democrats previously collaborated on a similar measure. The Senate has not held a final vote yet.
During a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Iran might perceive any Congressional resolution as binding the government’s hands, potentially hindering negotiations.
Beyond Iran, the Democratic minority seeks Republican support for other national security actions, including a vote to back U.S. military assistance to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and to aid in Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts. A resolution regarding U.S. action in Lebanon is also on the agenda.
The Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war, while the President can take military action as commander in chief, leading to legal debates over war and peace authority. Under the War Powers Act, the President has 60 days to seek Congressional approval for military actions. However, the administration argues that the current ceasefire in Iran means hostilities have ceased.
Reporter Ben Finley from The Associated Press contributed to this article.