House defies president on Iran war powers
The Republican-led US House of Representatives voted on Wednesday to halt the American war with Iran, breaking with President Donald Trump on an increasingly unpopular foreign conflict. The resolution passed 215-208, with four Republicans joining every Democrat in support. The measure would require the president to withdraw US forces from hostilities against Iran unless Congress explicitly authorizes military action.
The vote marked one of the most direct challenges to Trump's authority from members of his own party since the conflict began. Republican lawmakers who supported the resolution cited the war's rising human and economic costs and the absence of a clear strategy for ending it.
Economic toll fuels bipartisan frustration
Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican from North Carolina, told reporters he felt there were people advising the president as if there was no election in November. The war with Iran has driven up fuel prices and disrupted global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting American consumers and businesses. Polls show declining public support for the conflict as casualties mount and the economic impact spreads.
The White House responded by saying the resolution would not affect military operations. Spokesman Davis Ingle defended the president's strategy and said Trump was committed to bringing the war to a close on terms that protect American interests.
Path forward uncertain
Trump said on Friday that Iran's leaders had not yet agreed to a deal to end the war because they are strong and proud, but predicted Tehran would ultimately come to terms because they have no choice. The president's negotiators have been holding indirect talks with Iranian officials through intermediaries. The Senate has not taken up a similar measure, and the White House has indicated Trump would veto the House resolution if it reached his desk. Experts say the vote reflects growing unease among Republicans about the war's trajectory as the November midterm elections approach.