Washington, United States. The Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday approved a resolution seeking to block President Donald Trump from continuing the war against Iran, highlighting growing concern among some Republicans over the conflict. The measure passed 215 to 208 with support from four Republicans and all voting Democrats.
House approves war powers resolution
The resolution directs Trump to withdraw U.S. troops from Iran unless Congress declares war or authorizes the use of military force.
The four House Republicans who voted with Democrats were Representatives Tom Barrett of Michigan, Warren Davidson of Ohio, Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania and Thomas Massie of Kentucky. No Democrats voted against the measure, and seven House members did not vote.
Symbolic step faces further hurdles
The vote marked the latest setback for Trump in Congress despite Republicans holding slim majorities in both the House and Senate.
For now, the vote is largely symbolic because the legislation must also pass the Senate to take effect. There is also debate over whether war powers resolutions would be constitutional even if Congress approves them.
Growing unease among Republicans
The vote reflected unease among some Republicans over Trump’s handling of the conflict as the war entered its fourth month. It also marked a rare bipartisan effort to curb presidential war powers.
Three previous war powers resolutions had failed in the House by increasingly narrow margins. Last month, House Republican leaders abruptly postponed a vote on this resolution when it appeared likely to pass.
Senate action still pending
The Senate last month advanced a separate but similar resolution in a procedural vote after seven previous attempts had failed. Further votes on the Senate measure have not been scheduled.
Ukraine measure also advances
Separately on Wednesday, the House approved a procedural motion clearing the way for a vote on the Ukraine Support Act, which would provide security aid to Ukraine as it fights a Russian invasion.
The act reached the House floor only after a petition met the 218-signature threshold last month to move ahead.