The US Senate passed a resolution on 23/6, with 50 votes in favor and 48 against, requiring President Donald Trump to withdraw US forces from conflict with Iran unless Congress authorizes military operations. This resolution had already been approved by the US House of Representatives earlier this month.

This marks the tenth attempt by the US Senate to end the conflict with Iran, and the outcome represents a shift from previous efforts. On 23/6, four Republican senators, who had supported similar resolutions in the past, again voted in favor. Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat representing Pennsylvania, was the sole Democratic vote against the measure.

US President Donald Trump in Reading, Pennsylvania on 23/6. *Photo: AP*

The absence of two Republican members, notably Senator Mitch McConnell, who was recently hospitalized for undisclosed reasons, meant President Trump's party lacked the votes to block the resolution.

As a concurrent resolution, which is approved by both chambers of Congress and does not require the president's signature, this measure lacks legal force and is primarily symbolic. However, according to the AP news agency, the action highlights increasing concern among some Republicans in both the Senate and House regarding the Middle East conflict and President Trump's agreement with Iran.

The conflict has disrupted trade routes and driven up energy prices, adding pressure on American voters already concerned about inflation, ahead of the November midterm elections.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer stated that the American people have paid for Trump's "historic mistake" in Iran. He added that the conflict would be remembered as one of the worst foreign policy decisions in US history.

Chuck Schumer, Senate Democratic leader, at the Capitol on 23/6. *Photo: AP*

The 1973 War Powers Act mandates that a president must secure congressional approval within 60 days of deploying US forces into conflict. However, administrations from both parties have frequently debated the law's application.

The White House argued that resolutions restricting President Trump's power in Iran operations are unconstitutional. It asserted that the conflict concluded with a ceasefire agreement reached in April. The White House believes that limiting presidential authority could weaken the US's negotiating position as it seeks a final agreement with Iran.

Conversely, Democrats and some Republicans contend the conflict continues past the act's deadline, noting that President Trump has repeatedly threatened new attacks.

Pham Giang (According to AFP, AP)