The US Senate on Tuesday (May 19) voted 50-47 to advance a war powers resolution that would compel President Donald Trump to end military hostilities against Iran unless he secures explicit congressional authorization, in a rare bipartisan rebuke of the Republican leader nearly three months into the conflict.
Four Republican senators — Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, and Rand Paul of Kentucky — broke ranks to join Democrats in support of the procedural vote to discharge the measure from committee. Three Republicans missed the vote, while Democratic Senator John Fetterman voted against the motion.
The resolution, introduced by Senator Tim Kaine, would direct the president to remove US armed forces from hostilities within or against Iran, unless authorised by a declaration of war or a specific authorization for use of military force.
However, even if the measure ultimately passes the 100-member Senate, it must also win approval from the Republican-controlled House of Representatives — and then overcome a presidential veto, which would require two-thirds supermajorities in both chambers, a steep political hurdle.
President Trump wrote to congressional leaders on May 1, declaring that US hostilities with Iran had "terminated" following a ceasefire that has held since early April. The letter was widely seen as an attempt to sidestep the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution, which requires presidents to seek congressional authorization for continued military engagement. Trump's assertion came even as he suggested the war was far from over.
Related News:
China's UN ambassador warns against escalation of conflict in Gulf region
Comment