US House Votes to Curb Iran Strikes Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

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The US House of Representatives has approved a resolution aimed at halting American military action in Iran, delivering a symbolic political setback to President Donald Trump as diplomatic efforts with Tehran continue to stall.

The measure, passed in a 215–208 vote, saw four Republican lawmakers break ranks to join Democrats in supporting the resolution. Although largely symbolic and unlikely to become law without Senate approval and presidential assent, the vote reflects growing political divisions over Washington’s Iran strategy.

Democrats described the resolution as a strong message against what they called an “unpopular and illegal war of choice,” accusing the administration of escalating tensions in the region. The White House retains the authority to veto the measure even if it clears the Senate.

Meanwhile, diplomatic negotiations remain deadlocked. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told lawmakers that Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles remain a central issue in talks, with Washington insisting that Tehran must hand over near-weapons-grade material, limit its nuclear programme, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global energy shipping route—for any potential agreement.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said communication channels with the United States remain open but warned that any Israeli strike on Beirut could trigger a “full-scale resumption” of the conflict. He also cautioned that Iranian forces are prepared to respond if hostilities escalate further.

In Washington, Israel and Lebanon have recently agreed to a ceasefire framework following US-mediated talks, which includes a “complete cessation” of fire by Hezbollah. The agreement also outlines the creation of pilot zones in southern Lebanon where the Lebanese Armed Forces would assume exclusive control, excluding all non-state armed groups.

However, violence on the ground continues despite diplomatic efforts. Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for missile strikes on northern Israel, while Lebanon reports that Israeli airstrikes in the south have killed at least nine people, including two paramedics. Israeli forces are also reportedly conducting their deepest ground operations in Lebanon in two decades.

Tensions across the wider region remain high, with Kuwait condemning a drone strike on its airport as an act of “criminal Iranian aggression.” Iran has denied involvement, blaming technical failure in US defence systems for the incident and accusing Washington of provoking retaliation through earlier strikes.

The renewed escalation marks one of the most serious tests yet for the fragile ceasefire framework in the region, as sporadic exchanges of fire continue despite ongoing international mediation efforts.


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