WASHINGTON: Donald Trump has sharply criticized the US House of Representatives after lawmakers passed a resolution seeking to limit his ability to continue military operations against Iran without congressional authorization.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the vote as “meaningless” and “unpatriotic,” arguing that lawmakers were undermining sensitive diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Iran.
“Who would do such an unpatriotic thing? They know where the negotiations stand,” Trump wrote, referring to the vote that occurred while negotiations with Iran were continuing.
House Approves War Powers Resolution
The Republican-led House approved the measure by a vote of 215-208, with four Republicans joining Democrats in support of the resolution. The legislation directs the president to withdraw US forces from military operations against Iran unless Congress formally authorizes the use of force or declares war.
While the resolution represents a rare bipartisan challenge to presidential war powers, its practical impact remains uncertain because it must also pass the Senate before becoming law. Legal experts also continue to debate the constitutionality of such measures.
Growing Concern Within Congress
The vote reflects increasing concern among some lawmakers regarding the prolonged conflict with Iran, which has now entered its fourth month. Several previous attempts to pass similar resolutions failed, although margins have gradually narrowed.
Political analysts view the outcome as a signal that some members of Trump’s own party are becoming increasingly uneasy about the administration’s handling of the conflict.
Iran Warns Against External Pressure
Meanwhile, Iranian leaders continued to issue warnings against what they described as foreign attempts to destabilize the country.
Mojtaba Khamenei stated that Iran’s enemies had failed militarily and were now attempting to weaken public morale through what he called a “hybrid war” based on fear, division, and misinformation.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also warned that the era of “cost-free threats” against Iran had ended and vowed a strong response to any future aggression.
Diplomacy Continues Amid Tensions
Despite the ongoing military and political tensions, both Washington and Tehran have indicated that diplomatic channels remain open.
Trump suggested there could be progress in negotiations with Iran in the coming days, while Iranian officials acknowledged that discussions had not been suspended, although significant differences remain unresolved.
Key issues still under discussion include:
- Iran’s nuclear program
- Regional security arrangements
- Economic sanctions
- Energy exports
- Maritime security in the Gulf region
The House vote is unlikely to immediately alter US military policy, but it highlights growing political divisions in Washington over the Iran conflict. As diplomatic efforts continue alongside military tensions, the coming weeks may prove critical in determining whether negotiations can succeed or whether the conflict escalates further.
