ISLAMABAD: The U.S. Senate has voted down a resolution seeking to restrict President Donald Trump’s authority to initiate military action against Iran, dealing a blow to Democratic efforts to reassert congressional control over war powers.
The motion, known as Senate Joint Resolution 59, failed with a 53-47 vote.
Only one Democrat, Senator John Fetterman, opposed the measure, while Republican Senator Rand Paul broke ranks to support it.
The resolution aimed to require congressional approval for any further hostilities, highlighting concerns over recent U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.
Trump Defiant as Tensions Escalate
Trump had earlier warned of renewed bombing if Iran continued uranium enrichment.
His remarks came after a 12-day conflict with Israel, which ended with U.S.-led airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
The President insisted the damage inflicted was “profound,” a claim met with skepticism by some lawmakers briefed on the operation.
Republicans, however, defended Trump’s actions.
Senator Bill Hagerty argued the president must retain flexibility during crises, stating, “We must not shackle our president in the middle of a crisis when lives are on the line.”
Debate Over Constitutional Authority
Senator Tim Kaine, who introduced the resolution, underscored that the U.S. Constitution reserves war declarations for Congress.
He emphasized that unchecked military action undermines constitutional governance and increases the risk of prolonged conflict.
Despite past bipartisan support for similar measures, this resolution lacked the majority needed to overcome opposition and potential vetoes.
The issue reignites the ongoing debate over presidential military authority and Congress’s role in matters of war.
