US House Votes to End Iran War Powers, Delivering Major Blow To Donald Trump

Washington: The US House of Representatives for the first time on Wednesday approved a war powers resolution that will halt the US military action against Iran, demanding President Donald Trump withdraw US troops from the Iran war. 

Did the House really vote?

The House voted 215 to 208, as four Republicans voted with Democrats in favor of the war powers resolution. This is a setback for Donald Trump in Congress despite his party's slim majorities in both the House and Senate.

Any resolution would also have to pass the Senate to become effective, and garner the two-thirds majorities in both chambers to overcome an almost certain Trump veto.

What did the House Speaker say?

House Speaker Mike Johnson had tried to prevent an outcome that would show the mounting opposition to the war, abruptly shutting down floor action two weeks ago when the resolution was on the verge of approval. 

The resolution passed by a margin of 215-208. Four Republican members of Trump's own party also joined the Democrats in supporting it. Although this resolution is merely symbolic, it is considered a major political blow to Trump.

What is war powers act issue?

Democrats allege that Donald Trump, in collaboration with Israel, attacked Iran without congressional authorization, a violation of the Constitution. Under the War Powers Act, the president should have obtained authorization within 60 days, but that deadline has passed. The Trump administration maintains that the war is over, but gunfire and attacks are still occurring on both sides

What is the buzz now?

The measure now goes to the Senate, where Republicans hold a majority. The Senate could pass it this week, but Trump would likely veto it. Discontent is also growing among Republican lawmakers, as the issue weighs heavily on them ahead of the November midterm elections.