U.S. Senate Passes Bill Seeking to Restrict Trump’s Military Action Against Iran

The U.S. Senate has approved a bipartisan bill aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to conduct military operations against Iran without congressional approval.

The measure passed the Senate on Tuesday by a vote of 50-48. Earlier this month, the bill was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives in a 215-208 vote before moving to the Senate for consideration.

Although Republicans hold a majority in the Senate, four Republican senators joined Democrats in supporting the legislation. They were Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine, and Rand Paul of Kentucky.

Two Republican senators — Mitch McConnell and Dave McCormick — did not vote. Meanwhile, Democratic Senator John Fetterman opposed the bill.

The legislation calls on the president to halt military operations against Iran or seek authorization from Congress before taking further military action.

Despite the Senate vote, political analysts caution that the measure may not be enough to fully prevent future military action against Iran. President Trump could veto the bill, and overriding a presidential veto would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers of Congress.

Following the vote, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said lawmakers had made a tenth attempt to reassert congressional authority over military action involving Iran. He described the passage of the war-powers resolution as an important step in restoring congressional oversight.

Schumer criticized the administration’s Iran policy, arguing that Trump’s long-promised “maximum pressure” campaign had instead led to instability and increased costs for Americans.

The vote comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict between the United States and Iran. According to reports, leaders of both countries have signed a framework agreement supporting negotiations in Switzerland. Mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, the talks are aimed at reaching a comprehensive peace agreement within 60 days.

The Senate’s action highlights growing debate in Washington over the balance of power between Congress and the president in matters of war and foreign policy.