The US Senate on Tuesday advanced a resolution to curb President Donald Trump’s authority to wage war with Iran, marking the first time either chamber of Congress had moved forward with legislation limiting his military operations since the conflict began more than 11 weeks ago.

The measure passed a key procedural vote amid mounting concern over the war’s cost, which has already exceeded $30 billion.

What does the Senate Iran war powers resolution do?

The resolution invokes the 1973 War Powers Act to require the administration to halt military action against Iran unless Congress explicitly authorizes the conflict.

The Act was passed after the Vietnam War to prevent presidents from sustaining prolonged military campaigns without lawmakers’ approval. Passing the resolution would mark a rare wartime rebuke to a sitting commander-in-chief.

The vote reflected growing unease inside Trump’s own party as the conflict stretches into its third month.

The war has strained US weapons stockpiles, raised questions about military readiness, and driven official cost estimates above $30 billion. Four Republican senators joined nearly all Democrats in supporting the procedural advance.

Can the resolution actually stop Trump’s Iran war?

The resolution still faces significant obstacles before it could force any change in policy. It must first pass a final Senate vote, then clear the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, which has already rejected similar efforts. Even if both chambers passed it, Trump would almost certainly veto it.

The measure is therefore widely described as symbolic, but its political significance is real. It is the first time since the war began that congressional opposition has advanced this far. Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy was among the Republicans who backed it, according to reporting by DW.

What did Senate Democrats say about the vote?

Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer spoke bluntly ahead of the vote. “This president is like a toddler playing with a loaded gun,” he said. “If there was ever a time to support our war powers resolution to withdraw troops from hostilities with Iran, it’s now.”

The vote underscored the pressure building on the White House as the Iran conflict enters its third month with no clear end in sight. Trump has extended a fragile ceasefire and signaled he wants to exit the war, which has proven politically costly at home. Americans are paying more at the petrol pump and congressional elections are approaching in November.