House Delays Vote on Resolution Limiting Military Action in Iran

House Republicans last week withdrew a scheduled vote on a resolution that would have directed the president to end U.S. military involvement in Iran. The measure, led by Democrats, was expected to fail due to insufficient Republican support and will now be considered next month.

Several Republicans stated that portions of the 1973 War Powers Resolution are unconstitutional. A White House spokesperson told Newsweek that every administration since 1973 has taken this position and that the president will continue operations under constitutional authority while notifying Congress.

Background on the War Powers Resolution The 1973 law requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of introducing forces into hostilities and limits unauthorized action to 60 days plus a 30-day withdrawal period. Presidents of both parties have challenged the measure, though it remains in effect.

President Trump ordered strikes on Iran on February 28 without prior congressional approval and notified Congress on March 2. A ceasefire is currently in place, though additional U.S. strikes occurred this week.

Rubio said during a May briefing that the resolution is unconstitutional but that the administration complies with notification requirements to maintain relations with Congress. Vice President JD Vance stated in January that the law is unconstitutional and would not alter foreign policy decisions.

Lawmakers have filed eight lawsuits over the resolution, but courts have generally treated the disputes as political questions. Senators Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, and Rand Paul supported a Democratic-led measure in May.