Kehinde Adegoke | International Agencies
In a stunning turn on Capitol Hill, the U.S. Senate advanced a measure to curb President Donald Trump’s authority to wage war against Iran. This marks the first time this year that a war powers resolution has cleared a procedural hurdle. The 50–47 vote signals mounting unease in Congress over Trump’s handling of the conflict. The fighting remains in a fragile ceasefire.
Cassidy’s Defection Tips the Balance
The breakthrough hinged on Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy. He dramatically switched sides after losing his primary to a Trump-backed challenger. His vote, combined with support from GOP Senators Rand Paul, Lisa Murkowski, and Susan Collins, delivered Democrats the crucial edge. Three Republicans abstained, further tilting the outcome.
Pennsylvania Democrat John Fetterman was the lone member of his party to oppose the measure.
What’s at Stake
The resolution, spearheaded by Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia, insists that only Congress — not the president — can authorise war, as enshrined in the Constitution. Kaine argued that Trump’s dismissal of Iranian peace overtures underscored the need for legislative oversight:
“The president is receiving peace and diplomatic proposals that he is throwing into the trash can without sharing them with us,” Kaine warned.
Despite this step forward in the Senate, the measure faces steep odds ahead. It must also pass the Republican-controlled House, where prospects are slim. Even then, Trump is almost certain to veto it.
War Powers Law in Play
The 1973 War Powers Act was born out of the Vietnam era. It limits a president’s ability to sustain military action beyond 60 days without congressional approval. Trump declared hostilities “terminated” on May 1. Yet, U.S. forces continue to blockade Iranian ports and strike ships. Tehran retaliates in the Strait of Hormuz.
Just this week, Trump admitted he cancelled a planned strike at the urging of Gulf allies — though he continues to threaten renewed attacks if negotiations falter.
Symbolic but Significant
While unlikely to become law, Tuesday’s vote still represents a symbolic victory for Democrats. It marks a rare crack in Republican unity. After seven failed attempts earlier this year, the Senate’s shift underscores growing bipartisan frustration with Trump’s unilateral approach to war.
