Washington - The Senate defeated a war powers resolution on Wednesday that would have restricted President Trump from escalating military action against Iran. The 53-47 vote marks the third time Congress has rejected such a measure.
Led by Democratic Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, the resolution aimed to require congressional authorization for any U.S. military engagement in or against Iran. Congress has never formally authorized force in Iran.
Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania was the only Democrat to oppose the measure. GOP Sen. Rand Paul supported it. The vote came amid a prolonged Republican debate over elections legislation, pressured by Trump’s threat to veto unrelated bills unless this one passes.
The conflict nears a month-long milestone. Trump has not ruled out ground forces and has offered no timeline for ending hostilities. Despite repeated demands, top officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have not testified publicly.
Democratic senators warned they would halt other legislative efforts unless public hearings occur. Sen. Chris Murphy said the administration fears scrutiny over rising gas prices, regime change aims, and nuclear material objectives.