The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on a measure that directs President Trump to either withdraw U.S. forces from Iran or seek congressional approval to continue military operations. This resolution, initially set to pass in late May, was delayed by Republican leadership to avoid a potential defeat for the party and the president.
Passing this measure would starkly challenge President Trump’s actions regarding the war. Although Congress has attempted to restrain his power, the GOP has often deferred to his decisions. Two weeks ago, Republicans postponed the vote due to insufficient support to defeat the resolution. The current situation remains uncertain regarding their progress in securing additional votes as the conflict in Iran persists without resolution.
Democrats have utilized the War Powers Resolution to compel a vote within a specific timeframe, preventing further delays by Republican leaders. Last month, three House Republicans joined Democrats in backing a similar resolution, which failed in a tied vote, signaling increasing dissent against the ongoing military campaign.
This vote occurs amidst growing fractures between congressional Republicans and the president across various issues, particularly as midterm elections approach. Recently, Senate Republicans pushed President Trump to retract a request for $1 billion in security funding for a personal project, as well as a Department of Justice plan to create a federal fund for government victim claims.
If the House resolution passes and gains Senate approval, the legality of legislators forcing a president to withdraw troops remains disputed. Both President Trump and his senior aides have dismissed congressional efforts to limit presidential war powers as unconstitutional. Yet, a Senate vote last month that saw some GOP senators break ranks with the president highlighted a growing faction within his party seeking to end a conflict that many Americans feel is not justified.
Robert Jimison reports for The Times on congressional matters, concentrating on defense and foreign policy. Megan Mineiro, a Times congressional reporter, is part of the 2025-26 Times Fellowship, supporting early-career journalists.