The United States House of Representatives has passed a resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s ability to continue military action against Iran without congressional approval.
The measure passed by a narrow margin, with a small number of Republicans joining Democrats in support of the resolution, marking a rare political rebuke of Trump from members of his own party.
The resolution is based on the US War Powers Act, which gives Congress authority to restrict military engagement if lawmakers have not formally approved war or extended military operations.
Under the proposal, US forces would be prohibited from participating in further offensive military actions against Iran unless Congress explicitly authorizes such operations.
However, legal and political experts say the measure may have more symbolic than immediate practical impact. For it to become law, it must still pass the Senate and either receive Trump’s signature or survive a presidential veto through a two-thirds congressional override.
The White House criticized the resolution, arguing that US military actions involving Iran are necessary to protect American interests and prevent Tehran from advancing its nuclear and regional military ambitions.
Supporters of the measure say Congress is trying to reclaim its constitutional authority over decisions involving war and military intervention, accusing the president of acting without sufficient legislative approval.
The vote also reflects growing concern within both major political parties over the costs and risks of a wider conflict with Iran, including economic consequences, rising oil prices, and fears of a prolonged regional war.
Analysts say that even if the resolution does not ultimately become law, it signals increasing political pressure on the Trump administration and growing debate in Washington over US military involvement in the Middle East.