The United States House of Representatives has approved a resolution seeking to halt potential American military action against Iran, delivering a political setback to Donald Trump as diplomatic efforts to reach a deal with Tehran remain stalled.
Lawmakers voted 215-208 in favour of the measure on Wednesday, with four Republican members joining Democrats to support the resolution. While the vote does not immediately prevent military action, it represents a public rebuke of the administration’s approach toward Iran and signals growing concern among lawmakers over the possibility of deeper U.S. involvement in the conflict.
The resolution must still pass the United States Senate before reaching the president’s desk. Trump retains the power to veto the measure if it secures Senate approval.
The congressional vote comes amid weeks of difficult negotiations aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supplies passes.
Talks between Washington and Tehran have been marked by sharp rhetoric and intermittent outbreaks of violence, with little evidence of a breakthrough despite continued diplomatic engagement.
Iranian officials said on Wednesday that there had been “no tangible progress” in negotiations, highlighting the challenges facing efforts to secure a settlement. However, President Trump struck a more optimistic tone, telling reporters that an agreement “could happen” over the coming weekend.
The differing assessments underscore the uncertainty surrounding the negotiations and the broader geopolitical tensions between the two countries. Analysts say the outcome of the talks could have significant implications for regional stability, global energy markets, and U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
