President Donald Trump faced a notable reversal in the House of Representatives on Wednesday. The chamber voted to limit his ability to take military action against Iran without congressional approval.
The vote ended 215-208, effectively withdrawing troops from Iran unless authorized by Congress. All Democrats supported the measure, along with four Republicans: Thomas Massie, R-Ky., Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., and Tom Barrett, R-Mich. Massie and Davidson, both known for their criticism of the president, joined forces with Fitzpatrick and Barrett who are campaigning in challenging districts.
The measure came amidst protests in Tehran against U.S. and Israeli attacks, as thousands filled Revolution Square raising Iranian flags and images of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Rep. Thomas Massie, a vocal critic of Trump, crossed party lines to support limiting presidential war powers.
Most Republicans remained aligned with Trump, countering Democratic efforts to register their votes publicly.
House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast, R-Fla., described the vote dismissively, suggesting no party had a clear plan for withdrawing forces from Iran.
The advancement of the war powers resolution remains largely symbolic due to an anticipated presidential veto and lack of sufficient congressional support to override it.
The Trump administration has consistently claimed the 1973 War Powers Resolution requiring legislative oversight of military action is unconstitutional.
In May, the Senate pushed forward similar efforts to constrain Trump’s military actions, though a combined resolution to present to the president has not yet been backed by both houses.
President Donald Trump experienced a significant congressional setback as a vote aimed to curtail military operations in Iran was passed.
The GOP saw some internal dissent with certain members displeased with Trump’s approach toward the war.
Despite negotiations for a peace deal with Iran, military engagements between the two nations have persisted over recent weeks.
A Fox News poll reported that around 60% of voters oppose military engagement with Iran. However, 72% believe the U.S. has been winning the conflict.
Some Republicans viewed the resolution negatively, suggesting it might disrupt efforts to conclude the war peacefully, noting that hostilities have diminished since the ceasefire announcement in April.
Rep. Abe Hamadeh, R-Ariz., commented on the need to support Trump in peace negotiations, given ongoing minor conflicts. He criticized opponents for obstructing the president.
Chairman Brian Mast, R-Fla., expressed strong disapproval of the resolution, labeling it as a misguided vote.
Republican leadership initially postponed the vote in late May due to low attendance among GOP members.
Rep. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., highlighted the momentum of the resolution, indicating sufficient support despite an aborted vote.