By Ginika Igboke
The Senate on Tuesday advanced legislation directing U.S. President Donald Trump to withdraw American forces from the Iran conflict unless Congress authorizes continued military action or formally declares war.
Lawmakers approved the measure by a 50–47 vote, moving it past a major procedural hurdle. The proposal is based on the War Powers Resolution of 1973 and gained enough support after Bill Cassidy changed his position and voted in favor.
Cassidy had previously opposed similar efforts introduced earlier this year. His support ultimately provided the deciding margin.
Three additional Republicans—Rand Paul, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski—also voted for the resolution.
Among Democrats, only John Fetterman opposed the measure.
Three Republican senators—John Cornyn, Thom Tillis, and Tommy Tuberville—were absent from the vote.
Following the vote, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the results reflected growing resistance within Republican ranks toward the administration’s approach.
Cassidy explained his reversal in a social media post before the vote, saying he supported efforts to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program but criticized the administration for failing to provide sufficient information to Congress regarding military operations.
He argued that lawmakers had not received enough clarity on the operation to justify continued authorization.
Cassidy’s shift came shortly after his primary election defeat in Louisiana, where Trump had endorsed challenger Julia Letlow. Election results showed Letlow leading with approximately 44.8 percent of the vote, while John Fleming and Cassidy trailed behind.
Support Builds for Congressional Debate
Support for the Iran War Powers measure has gradually increased with each Senate vote.
Mike Rounds, who supported initial strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities but favors greater congressional involvement, said lawmakers increasingly believe it is time for broader debate.
He pointed to the 1973 law as providing a framework for discussion and congressional review.
Democrats also highlighted economic concerns linked to the conflict. Chris Murphy argued on the Senate floor that stalled peace talks were contributing to rising prices, including food and fuel costs.
The resolution would require the president to withdraw U.S. forces unless Congress formally approves continued involvement.
Trump has argued that a fragile ceasefire implemented after the initial military action effectively ended active hostilities, which could affect how the law applies.
The measure would require congressional approval for U.S. participation in a conflict that began following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in late February.
Earlier attempts to end the operation failed as Republicans repeatedly blocked similar proposals. Growing concern over energy costs and broader consequences of the conflict appears to have shifted the political landscape.
The military campaign, known as Operation Epic Fury, began on Feb. 28 and targeted Iranian nuclear facilities.
Trump formally notified Congress on March 2 that U.S. forces had entered combat operations, triggering the 60-day timeline established under the War Powers Resolution.
The law requires a president to end the use of U.S. armed forces within 60 days of notifying Congress unless lawmakers approve military action or issue a declaration of war.
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