The United States Senate has rejected a bipartisan attempt to limit the military authority of President Donald Trump over the ongoing conflict with Iran, effectively backing the administration’s air campaign.
In a largely party-line vote, senators voted 53 to 47 against advancing a resolution that sought to halt the air war against Iran unless Congress formally authorized military action.
The measure was designed to reassert Congress’ constitutional authority to declare war.
Supporters argued that the president should obtain legislative approval before continuing hostilities against Iran.
However, most Republicans opposed the resolution, insisting that Trump’s actions were lawful under his powers as commander-in-chief and necessary to protect the United States.
“This is not a forever war, indeed not even close to it. This is going to end very quickly,” said Jim Risch, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, while speaking against the proposal.
Congressional Divide
Democrats and a small number of Republicans who supported the resolution argued that Congress must reclaim its constitutional responsibility over decisions to wage war.
“This escalating pattern of military action without seeking our approval convinces me that you believe you never need to come to Congress to wage war against anyone anywhere,” said Tim Kaine, one of the measure’s lead sponsors.
Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer also criticized the administration, saying lawmakers faced a choice between public opposition to another Middle East conflict and backing the president’s military campaign.
A similar resolution is expected to be voted on Thursday in the United States House of Representatives.
House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated that Republicans likely have enough votes to defeat the proposal, arguing that restricting the president’s authority during an ongoing conflict could endanger U.S. forces.
Even if such a resolution were to pass both chambers of Congress, it would face a likely veto from President Trump and would require a two-thirds majority in both houses to override it.
The debate comes as the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran continues to escalate across the Middle East.
The fighting has already resulted in casualties and damage in several countries in the region.
With the 2026 U.S. midterm elections approaching, analysts say a prolonged war could become a major political issue.
Recent polling suggests many Americans remain skeptical about the military strikes on Iran and fear the United States could be drawn into another prolonged Middle East conflict.
Despite the failed vote, supporters of the resolution say they will continue pushing for congressional oversight and greater transparency regarding the administration’s military strategy in the region.
