WASHINGTON — Senate Republicans on Wednesday rejected a war powers resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to continue military operations involving Iran, reversing momentum from a similar measure that had passed the chamber a day earlier and underscoring divisions in Congress over the administration’s handling of the conflict.
The procedural vote took place late Wednesday after Trump met privately with Republican senators at the Capitol. According to lawmakers and media reports, the president sharply criticized Republicans who had previously supported efforts to restrict military action against Iran. The resolution failed after several key senators changed their positions or declined to support the measure.
The Senate had approved a related war powers resolution on Tuesday with support from Democrats and several Republicans. That measure sought to require congressional authorization for continued military action against Iran and was viewed by supporters as an effort to reaffirm Congress’s constitutional role in decisions involving armed conflict.
Republican leaders and the White House argued that the earlier vote risked undermining ongoing negotiations with Tehran and sending conflicting signals during a period of heightened tensions. Trump publicly criticized Republican supporters of the measure and later welcomed the outcome of Wednesday’s vote. According to reports, he wrote on social media after the vote that, “This vote puts Iran on notice.”
Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, one of the Republicans who had supported the earlier resolution, voted against the later measure after receiving a White House briefing from Vice President JD Vance and special envoy Steve Witkoff. Cassidy said he appreciated the opportunity to address concerns regarding the administration’s approach to Iran.
Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, another Republican who had previously backed congressional limits on military action, voted “present.” Paul said the decision was intended to provide the president with additional room to pursue negotiations, according to his public statement.
Democratic lawmakers criticized the reversal, arguing that Congress should maintain oversight of military engagements. Republican leaders countered that the administration required flexibility as diplomatic efforts continued. Details regarding the long-term strategy for the conflict remain unclear.
The vote came as the administration submitted a request to Congress for additional funding related to operations involving Iran and other priorities. Congressional leaders said further debate over military policy and funding is expected when lawmakers return from a scheduled recess.
