RismadarVoice Reporters, May 22, 2026
House Republicans on Thursday postponed a scheduled vote on a war powers resolution that sought to limit President Donald Trump’s authority over U.S. military operations in Iran, after indications that the measure could pass.
Lawmakers are now expected to reconsider the resolution in June following the Memorial Day recess.
The Democratic-backed measure, which has been repeatedly defeated in previous votes in the Republican-controlled House, gained renewed momentum amid growing bipartisan concern over the ongoing conflict in Iran and its economic and military implications.
The resolution, sponsored by Representative Gregory Meeks of New York, the ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, seeks to restrict U.S. military engagement in Iran unless Congress authorises continued action or in cases of imminent threat.
It directs the president to withdraw U.S. forces from hostilities against Iran, except for operations deemed necessary to defend the United States or its allies.
Republican leaders defended the decision to delay the vote, with House Majority Leader Steve Scalise saying some lawmakers were unavailable and should be allowed to vote when the chamber reconvenes.
“We just had some members who weren’t there for it but wanted to be recorded on it. So we’re going to be giving them that opportunity when we get back,” Scalise said.
Democratic leaders, however, criticised the move, accusing Republicans of avoiding accountability on a high-stakes foreign policy issue.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other Democrats described the postponement as “cowardly,” arguing that lawmakers were avoiding responsibility for a conflict that has resulted in U.S. casualties and high financial costs.
The debate comes amid ongoing tensions over the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which limits presidential military engagement without congressional approval beyond 60 days.
Trump has argued that the law does not apply in the current situation, citing a ceasefire arrangement with Iran. The administration is also reportedly considering renaming the military operation in a move that could reset the legal timeline for congressional oversight.
In the Senate, a similar war powers resolution has also gained traction, with several Republicans breaking ranks to support or consider supporting the measure in recent votes.
Lawmakers are expected to revisit the issue when Congress resumes session on June 2, when the legislative timeline will require a formal vote on the resolution.
