House Passes Third Iran War-Powers Resolution

The House voted 220-204 to direct President Donald Trump to end the U.S. war with Iran unless Congress authorizes continued military action, marking the chamber’s third effort to limit his authority over the conflict. Seven Republicans joined Democrats, including several lawmakers facing competitive reelection races, citing concerns about an open-ended conflict, casualties and Congress’s constitutional oversight responsibilities. Republicans opposed the measure, arguing that Iran remains a persistent threat and that Trump is addressing longstanding hostilities rather than pursuing a “forever war.” The resolution is largely symbolic because similar measures have stalled in the Senate, and Trump would likely veto any measure that reached his desk; the War Powers Act’s authority and constitutionality also remain disputed. The vote is expected to become a major issue in the November midterm elections as the nearly seven-month conflict contributes to regional instability, disrupted oil flows, higher fuel prices and an estimated $2 billion to $3 billion in monthly direct U.S. war spending.