Washington: The US Senate on Tuesday approved a resolution calling for an end to American military involvement in hostilities with Iran, marking a rare bipartisan challenge to President Donald Trump’s handling of the conflict.
The Republican-controlled senate passed the measure by a vote of 50-48, with four Republican senators joining nearly all Democrats in support of the resolution. Two Republican lawmakers did not participate in the vote.
The legislation, which had already cleared the House of Representatives earlier this month, reflects growing concern among members of Congress over the conflict with Iran, which began on February 28 and has drawn increasing scrutiny from both parties.
The resolution directs the president to withdraw US armed forces from military hostilities involving Iran. However, its practical impact remains uncertain, as the Trump administration continues to pursue diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a peace agreement with Tehran.
Under the provisions of the 1973 War Powers Act, the measure does not require presidential approval and therefore will not be sent to the White House for signature. The administration has argued that the Senate resolution is unconstitutional and not legally binding on the executive branch.
Legal experts say the enforceability of the measure remains unclear and could ultimately be decided through judicial review.
Scott Anderson, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and senior editor at Lawfare, noted that the administration is likely to disregard the Senate resolution on constitutional grounds. He added that it remains uncertain who would have the legal standing to challenge such a decision in court.
The Senate vote highlights continuing debate in Washington over the scope of presidential war powers and Congress’s authority to limit military action abroad, even as diplomatic efforts with Iran continue.