The United States Senate has rejected an attempt by lawmakers to halt President Donald Trump’s military campaign against Iran, after a closely watched vote on a War Powers resolution failed to secure enough support.
During a session in Washington, senators voted 53–47 against the measure, preventing it from passing and effectively allowing the president to continue military operations without new authorization from Congress.
The resolution was introduced by Democratic Senator Tim Kaine, who argued that the U.S. Constitution gives Congress not only the president but also the authority to decide when the nation goes to war.
“This is about Congress doing its constitutional duty,” Kaine said during the debate, urging lawmakers to reclaim oversight over U.S. military engagement.
Supporters of the proposal warned that the ongoing conflict could escalate into a broader regional war if Congress does not intervene.
They argued that lawmakers must have a direct say before further military actions are taken.
However, many Republican senators defended the president’s authority as commander-in-chief and opposed efforts they said could restrict the United States military during a time of rising tensions.
Only a small number of senators crossed party lines during the vote, highlighting the deep political divisions surrounding the issue.
With the resolution failing to pass in the Senate, President Trump retains the authority to continue the military campaign as tensions between the United States and Iran remain high.
The vote marks one of the first major congressional tests of support for the administration’s approach to the conflict and signals that efforts to limit the president’s war powers may face significant obstacles in Congress.
