The US House of Representatives passed a resolution on Wednesday that aims to limit President Donald Trump's power to launch or continue military operations against Iran without congressional approval.
The resolution passed by a vote of 215 to 208, with four Republicans joining Democrats in supporting the measure. They are Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, Warren Davidson of Ohio, Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Tom Barrett of Michigan.
Through the resolution, the Trump administration is directed to withdraw US military involvement in Iran or seek formal authorization from Congress if it wants to proceed with any military action.
The move reflects an effort by lawmakers to reaffirm the role of Congress in determining the country's involvement in war.
According to the US Constitution, only Congress has the power to declare war.
However, for decades, presidents have often used the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to conduct military operations without a formal declaration of war.
The last time Congress formally declared war was in 1942 during World War II.
The development comes as tensions between the US and Iran continue to be a global concern. At the same time, Democrats in the House and Senate have continued to push for limits on the president's war powers to prevent any large-scale conflict without congressional oversight.
While the resolution passed the House, it still needs to be approved in the Senate in the same form before being sent to President Trump for signature.
However, political observers expect Trump to likely veto the bill if it reaches his desk.
