House narrowly approves resolution urging halt to U.S. military action in Iran

The House approved a resolution urging the cessation of U.S. military action against Iran by a vote of 214-208, delivering a second formal warning to President Donald Trump. The measure, which requires congressional approval for continued hostilities, comes as the Senate is expected to consider a similar resolution later Thursday.

Democratic Representative Pramila Jayapal, who led the resolution, said the war has “no clear mission, no strategy, no end goal.” A small number of Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the measure, while the majority of GOP members voted to maintain the president’s war powers.

Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Rep. Brian Mast read the names of 18 service members killed since the conflict began, stating that their sacrifice should not be dismissed. New York Representative Gregory Meeks, the top Democrat on the committee, argued that presidents must justify military actions to Congress and described the war as “illegal, unauthorized” and lacking public support.

Airstrikes continue amid stalled diplomatic talks over the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route that remains largely closed. Gasoline prices have risen, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told senators the war has cost $37.5 billion to date. President Trump attended a ceremony at Dover Air Force Base for the transfer of the remains of four fallen service members.

“I do think the combination of the hearings, plus the fact that we are in this new escalatory phase where Americans have been killed, and Americans are experiencing the rising costs — I think it’s important that people be held accountable,” said Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen, who is leading the Senate effort.

Lawmakers from both parties have expressed growing concern about the war’s unclear objectives and its economic and human toll as the midterm elections approach.