Key facts
- The U.S. Senate approved legislation directing President Donald Trump to halt U.S. military action against Iran.
- The vote was 50-48, with four Republicans joining Democrats.
- This marks the first time both chambers of Congress have passed a concurrent resolution directing a president to end military action since the War Powers Resolution of 1973.
- The resolution is largely symbolic and does not go to the president for signature or veto.
- A White House official stated the resolution has no significance and no force of law.
The U.S. Senate approved legislation on Tuesday directing President Donald Trump to halt U.S. military action against Iran, marking the first time both chambers of Congress have passed a concurrent resolution directing a president to remove U.S. armed forces from hostilities since the War Powers Resolution was enacted in 1973. The Senate voted 50-48 in favor of the measure, which had previously passed the House of Representatives. Four Republicans joined all but one Democrat in supporting the resolution. The vote is seen as a setback for Trump, particularly as his administration is expected to request significant funding for the conflict. Public opinion polls indicate that a majority of Americans believe the war is not worth its costs and are concerned about the longevity of any truce with Tehran. Legal experts note that the constitutionality of the War Powers Act remains unsettled, with the White House asserting it is not binding and that the resolution has no force of law. A White House official stated that the resolution is insignificant because hostilities were terminated with a ceasefire on April 7. Experts suggest the constitutionality of the act will likely be decided in the courts, with some questioning who would have standing to sue for enforcement.