Congress Moves to Block New U.S. Attacks on Iran

Overview

• The Senate approved a joint War Powers resolution 50–48 on June 23, with four Republican senators — Rand Paul, Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski and Bill Cassidy — voting with Democrats.
• The resolution says the president must get Congress’ explicit authorization before ordering new attacks on Iran but is not a binding law and does not require the president’s signature.
• The White House has said it will not comply with the measure and is expected to seek judicial review to block or overturn the resolution.
• A closed-door meeting on June 24 between President Trump and Senate Republicans became tense and public reports say a heated exchange with Sen. Bill Cassidy highlighted deep GOP divisions over the vote.
• Lawmakers and strategists say the move heightens congressional checks on military action, could reshape messaging in the November midterms, and may shift the dispute into courts while U.S. and Iranian negotiators continue ceasefire talks.