US Senate passes symbolic war powers resolution rebuking Trump’s Iran campaign

The US Senate has passed a war powers resolution instructing President Donald Trump to cease military operations in Iran or obtain congressional authorisation, marking the first time both chambers of Congress have approved such a concurrent resolution since the War Powers Resolution of 1973 was enacted. The vote, which concluded 50-48, represents a significant political rebuke to the White House as the conflict approaches its fifth month, although the measure is largely symbolic and does not carry the force of law.

The resolution directs the President to halt military action or seek congressional approval, yet it will not be sent to Trump for signature. A White House official indicated that the measure passed only because two Republican senators, Mitch McConnell and Dave McCormick, were absent during the vote. Four Republican senators—Rand Paul, Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, and Bill Cassidy—joined all Democrats in support of the motion, while Democratic Senator John Fetterman was the only member of his party to vote against it.

President Trump criticised the resolution on Truth Social, describing it as "poorly timed and meaningless." He asserted that he would resolve the conflict regardless of the legislative effort, stating, "I always get it done." The White House argued that there are no hostilities from which to withdraw forces, citing a ceasefire agreed upon on 7 April, and suggested the measure was politically motivated ahead of the midterm elections in November.

The passage of the resolution adds to the political pressure on the administration as the Pentagon requests approximately $80 billion from Congress to fund the war effort. The conflict began with US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets on 28 February, and while a ceasefire was agreed in April, the Pentagon has launched recent bombing raids, including one involving 49 Tomahawk missiles. Federal law generally requires congressional approval to continue military actions for more than 60 days, a deadline the White House can extend by citing national security.

Diplomatic efforts continue alongside the legislative friction, with Washington and Tehran having signed a memorandum of understanding last week. This agreement allows 60 days to negotiate a broader deal on ending Iran's nuclear programme. Meanwhile, the United Nations announced it would evacuate sailors stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, as US officials warned against tolls on commercial shipping in the region. This was the 10th time Senate Democrats have forced a war powers vote since the start of the conflict.