The U.S. House of Representatives passed a war powers resolution on Thursday that directs President Donald Trump to halt military actions against Iran unless specifically authorized by Congress. The measure passed with a 214-208 vote, supported by most Democrats and four Republicans: Reps. Tom Barrett (R-MI), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Warren Davidson (R-OH), and Thomas Massie (R-KY).
Hours after the House vote, the U.S. Senate blocked a similar measure in a 49-47 procedural vote. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) voted with Democrats in favor of the measure, while Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) voted with Republicans against it. Under the U.S. Constitution, Congress holds the power to declare war, though presidents frequently cite executive authority to conduct short-term military operations to address immediate threats.
The legislative activity follows a period of escalated hostilities that began on February 28. President Trump recently announced an increase in military strikes following the deaths of U.S. service members and a Red Sea attack by Houthi forces on two Saudi oil tankers. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), who introduced the House resolution, stated the conflict is unauthorized and cited rising fuel costs and casualties. Conversely, Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT) opposed the resolutions, stating they undercut the Commander-in-Chief during an active conflict.