US House deals blow to Trump, passes measure seeking troop withdrawal from Iran

The resolution passed 215-208 on Wednesday, with four Republicans joining Democrats in support. It now moves to the Senate, where its fate remains uncertain.

Even if approved, the measure is expected to face a presidential veto.

Rare Republican rebellion against Trump

The vote marked the first time the Republican-controlled House has approved a measure aimed at curtailing Trump's military operations against Iran since hostilities began three months ago.

Democrats hailed the outcome as a strong message to the White House, arguing that the American public does not support a prolonged military conflict with Tehran.

The narrow passage also highlighted growing unease among some Republicans over the political and strategic costs of the war.

Senate vote could follow soon

A similar resolution cleared a key procedural hurdle in the Senate in late May. The upper chamber, also narrowly controlled by Republicans, could take up the measure as early as this week.

However, Republican leaders are expected to explore options to prevent the resolution from reaching a final vote, reflecting divisions within the party over the conflict.

Democrats invoke War Powers Act

Democrats contend that Trump violated the Constitution by authorising strikes against Iran alongside Israel in February without congressional approval.

They argue that under the War Powers Act, presidents must secure congressional authorisation within 60 days of introducing US forces into hostilities. According to them, that deadline has already passed.

The White House rejects that interpretation, maintaining that an April ceasefire effectively paused the legal clock.

Fighting continues despite claims war is over

The Trump administration has repeatedly asserted that the war is effectively over. However, ongoing military exchanges have cast doubt on that claim.

Overnight, the United States said it intercepted Iranian drones and struck an Iranian ground-control facility.

In response, Iranian forces launched drones and missiles targeting several Gulf countries.

The latest escalation comes amid stalled peace efforts and continued threats from both sides.

Midterm election pressure builds

While Republicans backing Trump argue that withdrawing support now would weaken the United States at a time when Iran remains vulnerable, political pressure is mounting ahead of November's midterm elections.

The House vote suggests that concerns about the conflict's costs and legality are beginning to resonate beyond Democratic ranks, potentially complicating Trump's foreign policy agenda in the months ahead.