politics

Senate advances resolution to limit Trump's Iran war powers for first time, after 4 Republicans defect

Updated on: May 19, 2026 / 6:30 PM EDT / CBS News

Senate advances resolution to limit Trump's Iran war powers for first time, after 4 Republicans defect

TL;DR

  • The Senate advanced a resolution to limit President Trump's war powers in Iran, with four Republicans joining Democrats.
  • This marks the first time Democrats have succeeded in advancing such a resolution after seven prior attempts.
  • The resolution directs the president to withdraw U.S. armed forces from hostilities against Iran unless authorized by a declaration of war or specific military force authorization.
  • Democrats view the vote as a significant step, despite the potential for a presidential veto, believing it could influence the president's decisions and public opinion.
  • The vote occurred as President Trump announced the U.S. would not proceed with scheduled attacks on Iran, a decision he was reportedly close to making.