US Senate votes down resolution to curb Trump's war powers in Iran

The US Senate has not passed a resolution aimed at limiting the president's military powers that would have prevented Donald Trump from continuing military action against Iran.

Source: Ukrinform; US Senate voting livestream

Details: The resolution received 47 votes in favour and 53 against.

Senator John Fetterman was the only Democrat to vote against it, while Senator Rand Paul was the sole Republican to support the measure.

The draft resolution included provisions to stop hostilities against Iran.

The Democrats argue that the US Constitution gives Congress the authority to declare war, whereas Trump and his senior officials have already defined the actions in Iran as a war.

A similar resolution is scheduled to be considered by the US House of Representatives on Thursday.

For reference: Under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, the US president may engage the armed forces in a conflict provided Congress is notified within 48 hours. The president also has 60 days to begin withdrawing forces if Congress does not approve a formal declaration of war or a specific authorisation for military action.

Background:

• Trump claimed on 3 March that Iran wants to negotiate, but that it is now "too late".
• Trump's advisers have expressed serious concern about the campaign against Iran and would like to see it concluded as quickly as possible.

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