The US House of Representatives passed a measure aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s military actions in Iran.
In a close 215-208 vote, four Republicans joined Democrats, showing a rare bipartisan stance against the ongoing war that started in February. This marks the House’s fourth attempt to check Trump’s war powers, which many believe lack proper congressional backing.
Next, the measure needs the green light from the Republican-controlled Senate. Even if it passes there, it may not fully restrict military actions against Iran.
Trump could veto it, requiring a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override.
The Senate previously advanced a similar resolution in May, but it hasn’t yet gone to a full vote.
Notably, Republicans Thomas Massie, Brian Fitzpatrick, Tom Barrett, and Warren Davidson united with Democrats to support Wednesday’s resolution. Jared Golden, a Democrat from Maine, also shifted his stance to back it this time.
Republican Tom Barrett emphasized, “Congress alone declares war; we need to protect that.” When asked about potential backlash from Trump, he confidently stated, “I vote my conscience for what I think is right.”
This vote reflects growing divisions within Trump’s Republican Party, following a recent conservative revolt that led to the withdrawal of a $1.8 billion fund aimed at political allies.
Representative Gregory Meeks, a leading Democrat, called the vote “a significant bipartisan rebuke of President Trump’s costly and illegal war in Iran, marking the first step toward ending it.”
Meeks highlighted that Trump hasn’t met the war’s objectives, while fuel prices have risen and diplomatic resolutions have become tougher.
“The passage of this measure shows a turning point: more Republicans are listening to constituents who want to avoid another endless war in the Middle East,” Meeks added.
The US and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, prompting Iran to retaliate against Israel and US-allied nations and close the crucial Strait of Hormuz for global shipping.
In April, the US announced a blockade on ships heading to or from Iran.
Despite a ceasefire agreement reached on April 8, recent US strikes prompted Iran to target Kuwait, a US ally. Ahead of the vote, Trump claimed negotiations to end the war are progressing well and could conclude soon.
“We hit them pretty hard the night before, and actually last night,” Trump shared, referencing the strikes. “Some might say they were slightly provoked, but we’re working toward a deal without causing casualties.”
He added that many in his administration hope to finalize a resolution soon, stating, “In theory, they’re close to signing, and we’ve been getting along well.”
