US House passes resolution to limit Trump’s war powers on Iran

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday approved a resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to launch military action against Iran without congressional approval. The measure passed 215-208, with four Republicans joining Democrats in support.

Although the resolution is unlikely to become law, it signals growing opposition to Trump’s decision to join Israel in military strikes against Iran on February 28 without seeking congressional authorisation. The conflict is set to reach its 100th day on Saturday.

The vote marks the first time this year that a war powers resolution concerning Iran has cleared the House. The measure had previously been delayed when House Speaker Mike Johnson adjourned the chamber before a scheduled vote in May.

Republican lawmakers Tom Barrett, Warren Davidson, Brian Fitzpatrick and Thomas Massie broke ranks to support the resolution. Barrett argued that Congress alone has the constitutional authority to declare war and determine the scope of military engagement.

Democrats unanimously backed the measure, urging the Senate to act swiftly. Several lawmakers said Trump’s military campaign had bypassed Congress and imposed significant financial and strategic costs on the United States.

The Pentagon estimated in May that the war had already cost nearly $29 billion, while some analysts warned expenses could eventually exceed $1 trillion. Concerns have also been raised about dwindling US military stockpiles and public opposition to the conflict.

Recent polling shows a majority of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the war, with concerns centered on rising economic costs and the rationale behind the military action. The resolution now moves to the Senate, but any attempt to restrict Trump’s war powers would likely face a presidential veto and require a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override it.