House Passes Resolution to Limit Further U.S. Military Action in Iran

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a concurrent resolution on Wednesday requiring the withdrawal of U.S. forces or congressional approval before any further military action against Iran. The vote was 215-208. Four Republicans joined Democrats to approve the measure.

Israeli forces launched strikes against Iran on 28 February. Iran responded by attacking Israel and U.S. allies in the Gulf and closing the Strait of Hormuz. In April the United States announced a blockade on vessels traveling to or from Iran. An initial ceasefire was reached on 8 April, but U.S. strikes resumed in recent days and Iran responded with attacks on Kuwait.

The House measure is the fourth attempt by that chamber to constrain presidential war powers since the conflict began. The Senate advanced a similar resolution in May but has not scheduled a floor vote. If the Senate passes the concurrent resolution it would not require the president's signature, though it could face legal challenge.

“Congress alone declares war, that's something certainly we need to be protective of." The White House called the resolution an unconstitutional restriction on presidential authority.”

Statements from the President President Trump told reporters at the White House on Wednesday that talks to end the war are advancing. "We hit them pretty hard the night before, and actually last night," he said. The president added that most members of his administration hope to reach a deal "without killing everybody."