The Senate advanced a resolution on Tuesday that would direct President Donald Trump to withdraw U.S. military forces from Iran unless Congress authorizes continued operations or declares war. The measure, rooted in the 1973 War Powers Resolution, passed a key procedural hurdle with a 50–47 vote. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) provided the decisive vote, marking the first time he supported advancing such a resolution.
The resolution, led by Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, would require the president to remove U.S. forces from hostilities against Iran unless explicitly authorized by a declaration of war or specific authorization for use of military force. While the vote was procedural, a full Senate vote is expected later. Even if both chambers approve the resolution, President Trump is expected to veto it. However, Democrats argue the measure carries significance and could influence the president's approach to the conflict.
Sen. Cassidy, who lost his primary election last week, cited concerns about the administration's lack of transparency regarding Operation Epic Fury. He stated that until the White House provides clarity, no congressional authorization or extension can be justified. The resolution has faced multiple rejections due to insufficient Republican support, but Cassidy's vote, along with those of Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), allowed it to advance.
The war with Iran has surpassed the 60-day requirement under the War Powers Act for presidential authorization of military force. The Trump administration has challenged the law's constitutionality, arguing that a fragile ceasefire in April halted the clock. Republicans broadly opposed the measure, though absences among some senators may have influenced the outcome. Rising gas prices and public opposition to the conflict have contributed to growing unease among lawmakers.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer emphasized that Republicans are increasingly willing to challenge the president on the Iran war. Meanwhile, President Trump has vowed to annihilate Iran if no deal is reached, stating there would be 'nothing left.' The resolution's advancement marks a rare rebuke to Trump's foreign policy, though its ultimate passage remains uncertain.