Arabic version: مجلس الشيوخ يمرر قرارًا للحد من الإجراءات العسكرية لترامب في إيران

According to Al Jazeera,

The United States Senate has advanced a War Powers Resolution that could prevent President Donald Trump from using military force against Iran without congressional authorisation. The vote on a procedural measure to advance the resolution was passed on Tuesday by a margin of 50 to 47, with a handful of Republicans joining Democratic colleagues to pass the measure in a rare rebuke of the president.

Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump’s approach, likening it to “a toddler playing with a loaded gun.” He emphasized the urgency for Congress to assert its constitutional authority over military engagements. The resolution’s advancement is seen as a significant victory for those advocating for congressional oversight in matters of war.

Despite the procedural success, the resolution faces significant hurdles before it can be enacted. Three Republican senators were absent during the vote, and their participation could potentially defeat the measure if they oppose it. Additionally, the resolution must pass the Republican-controlled House of Representatives and overcome a likely presidential veto requiring two-thirds support in both chambers.

The recent vote highlights the mounting pressure on President Trump as the conflict, launched by the US and Israel in late February, continues to disrupt global energy markets and impact domestic living costs. Lawmakers from both parties have urged Trump to seek formal authorization from Congress for military actions, raising concerns about the potential for prolonged conflict without a clear exit strategy.

The Trump administration has defended its military operations as legal and necessary for national security. Under the 1973 War Powers Act, a president can engage in military action for a maximum of 60 days before requiring congressional authorization, unless a 30-day extension is requested due to military necessity. President Trump declared on May 1 that a ceasefire with Tehran had “terminated” hostilities, meaning he had not waged more than 60 days of war on Iran. Despite the president’s assertion that the conflict has ceased, US troops continue to blockade Iranian ports and attack Iranian shipping, while Tehran’s forces are blocking access to the Strait of Hormuz and have attacked US vessels.