WASHINGTON — The House passed a measure on Wednesday, rejecting President Donald Trump’s approach to military engagement with Iran, despite opposition from Republican leadership. The vote marked a notable assertion by House Democrats against the President’s foreign policy.
The resolution, which was led by Rep. Gregory Meeks of New York, instructs the President to withdraw U.S. armed forces from hostilities with Iran unless Congress declares war or authorizes military force. This action was part of two Democratic-led initiatives that faced White House opposition and advanced in the GOP-controlled House.
The vote concluded with a tally of 215-208, with four Republicans joining all Democrats in support. The Republican members voting in favor were Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Tom Barrett of Michigan, and Warren Davidson of Ohio.
Although the measure symbolizes disapproval of Trump’s military actions, it does not obligate him to end the conflict. Previously, three other war powers resolutions had been rejected by Republicans this year. The most recent attempt resulted in a tie, with Democrats advocating that public sentiment was shifting against the war.
The resolution could pave the way for similar legislation in the Senate, which had already considered its own version. Unlike the House resolution, the Senate’s version would require Trump to cease military operations without congressional approval, although it would need to pass the House and could be subject to a presidential veto.
Opposition to the House resolution came from Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republicans, who argued it undermines the President during negotiations for a nuclear deal with Iran. Foreign Affairs Chairman Brian Mast criticized the vote as offering “no tangible results” and undermining negotiations with Iran.
In a related series of votes, the House also approved a motion to advance legislation providing aid to Ukraine, passing with a vote of 218-204. This followed a discharge petition that garnered enough signatures to bring the bill directly to the floor, bypassing GOP leadership.
Rep. Kevin Kiley, who recently became an independent, supported the Ukraine petition along with two other Republicans and all Democrats. A final vote on the Ukraine aid legislation is set for Thursday.
Rep. Meeks characterized the vote on Ukraine aid as a statement of support for the country’s sovereignty and democratic values.
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