The Republican-led US Senate on Wednesday blocked a Democratic resolution that would have forced the withdrawal of American forces from the Iran conflict unless Congress formally authorises continued military action.
The measure was defeated by a 52-47 vote, marking the fourth time this year that the Senate has effectively ceded its war powers to President Donald Trump in the ongoing hostilities, now stretching into a seventh week.
Democrats described the military campaign as illegal, unconstitutional and unjustified, urging lawmakers to reclaim congressional authority under the War Powers Act of 1973, which requires authorisation within 60 days of the start of hostilities — a deadline falling at the end of this month.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer criticised the outcome, linking it to domestic economic pressures. “With gas prices climbing, the American people literally cannot afford for Republicans to forgo another opportunity to work with Democrats to end Trump’s disastrous war,” he said.
Republican senators largely backed the administration’s approach, citing Iran’s nuclear capabilities and the broader security implications for the Middle East. However, several expressed unease about the conflict’s duration and called for a clear endgame strategy.
Senator Thom Tillis (Republican, North Carolina) urged the administration to act decisively. “I think that the administration would be wise to put together what would look like a well-founded authorisation of military force and a funding strategy… it’s time to fish or cut bait,” he said.
Senator Susan Collins (Republican, Maine) emphasised constitutional limits on presidential power. “I have been clear from the beginning of this military operation that the President’s power is not unlimited as Commander in Chief, as the Constitution gives Congress an essential role in matters of war and peace,” she stated, adding that Congress should authorise any actions exceeding the War Powers Act timeframe.
Senator John Kennedy (Republican, Louisiana) stressed the goal of achieving objectives before withdrawal. “I want to see us achieve our objective in Iran. And then I want to see us get out.”
Democrats, including Senator Tammy Duckworth, vowed to keep pressing the issue. “As our troops continue to sacrifice whatever is asked of them, we senators need to do the absolute minimum required of us,” she said.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged the need for planning. “They do need a plan for how to wind this down, how to get an outcome that actually leads to a safer, more secure Middle East and, by extension, a stronger national security position for the United States.”
Some Republicans, including Senators Lisa Murkowski and John Curtis, are reportedly exploring a bipartisan resolution to authorise the campaign if it continues beyond the statutory deadline.
The vote comes as a two-week ceasefire appears near expiration, with lawmakers from both parties pressing the White House for clarity on the conflict’s direction.
The rejection leaves US forces engaged without new congressional approval for now, as diplomatic and military developments in the region continue to unfold.
