Washington DC, 06 March (H.S.): The U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday narrowly defeated a bipartisan resolution to restrain President Donald Trump's authority over the escalating war with Iran, signaling staunch Republican support amid mounting casualties and regional chaos.Lawmakers voted 219-212 against the measure, spearheaded by Republican Thomas Massie and Democrat Ro Khanna, which sought to invoke the 1973 War Powers Resolution. This would have compelled Trump to secure congressional approval for ongoing operations or withdraw forces from unauthorized hostilities against Tehran.

Congressional Divide Deepens Amid Battlefield Toll

The rejection follows a similar Senate rebuff, highlighting limited bipartisan will—especially among Republicans—to challenge the White House during the conflict's nascent phase, now entering its seventh day. Even if passed, Trump could veto the bill, demanding improbable two-thirds overrides in both chambers.

Sparked less than a week ago by U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian missile sites, naval assets, and infrastructure, the campaign has slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and prompted reprisals, including a deadly assault on a U.S. base in Kuwait that killed six American servicemembers. Democrats decry it as a war of choice, faulting vague justifications and absent proof of imminent threats.

Partisan Fireworks Erupt on Capitol Hill

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer lambasted Republicans for endorsing the offensive, declaring they now own this war with Iran just as much as Donald Trump does. House Speaker Mike Johnson countered that curbing Trump mid-campaign would empower our enemies and undermine U.S. forces.

Massie insisted Congress reclaim its constitutional war-making prerogative, arguing lawmakers owe troops a clearly defined mission for a safe return. Democrats vow renewed pushes, as the War Powers framework—born post-Vietnam—aims to avert presidents entangling America sans legislative consent.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar