House votes to challenge Trump’s Iran war authority in narrow rebuke

House lawmakers voted narrowly on Wednesday, June 3, to advance a measure aimed at forcing President Donald Trump to end the ongoing conflict with Iran, marking a political setback for the administration and a rare bipartisan rebuke on war powers.

The resolution passed 215–208, with four Republicans — Thomas Massie, Brian Fitzpatrick, Tom Barrett and Warren Davidson — joining all Democrats in support, according to US media.

While largely symbolic due to its status as a concurrent resolution, which does not carry the force of law, the vote places Congress on record opposing a conflict that has stretched beyond three months with no clear resolution.

Democrats and a small group of Republicans argue the war is незаконно conducted without explicit congressional authorisation, citing the 1973 War Powers Act. That law permits limited military action for 60 days, with a possible 30-day extension — a window lawmakers say has already expired. The resolution, introduced by Representative Greg Meeks, calls for the withdrawal of US forces from hostilities with Iran unless Congress formally approves further action.

The White House has rejected the measure, arguing it is unconstitutional and unnecessary. Officials maintain that hostilities effectively ended after Trump declared a ceasefire on April 7, asserting there are no ongoing operations requiring congressional intervention.

Despite its limited legal impact, the vote reflects shifting political dynamics. Some Republicans have begun distancing themselves from Trump on key issues ahead of the midterm elections, particularly as the war’s economic consequences weigh on voters. Rising fuel and grocery prices — partly attributed to global trade disruptions linked to the conflict — have eroded support among independents, even as Republican voters largely continue to back the war.

House Republican leadership has defended the administration, arguing the conflict does not meet the legal definition of war and warning that restricting presidential authority could embolden Iran.

The Senate has already advanced a similar measure, though its timeline for a final vote remains unclear. Unlike the House version, the Senate’s joint resolution would carry legal force if passed and signed — though Trump is expected to veto it.

By Tamilla Hasanova