US House limits Trump’s Iran war powers, Senate backs president

The Republican-led US House of Representatives backed a resolution on Thursday directing President Donald Trump to halt US military action against Iran unless he obtains Congress’ approval, but the Senate voted hours later to block a separate, similar measure.

The House vote, the latest rebuke of Trump from Congress, was 214-208 in favour of the war powers resolution as four Republicans joined Democrats in voting for it.

But the Senate voted 49 to 47 to block its own war powers measure within hours of the House vote.

The House resolution, introduced by Representative Pramila Jayapal, a Washington Democrat, directed Trump “to remove the use of United States Armed Forces from hostilities” against Iran unless Congress authorises it. However, it was largely symbolic.

Lawmakers have passed similar resolutions repeatedly in recent months, but they have not led to a cessation of the war.

The four House Republicans who voted in favour were Tom Barrett of Michigan, Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, Warren Davidson of Ohio and Thomas Massie of Kentucky.

Growing frustration