US Senate approves measure seeking to end military action against Iran

WASHINGTON: The US Senate on Tuesday passed a measure calling for an end to American military involvement against Iran, marking a rebuke to President Donald Trump even as his administration is engaged in peace talks with Tehran.

The chamber, where Republicans hold the majority, approved the concurrent resolution by 50 votes to 48. The proposal had already cleared the House of Representatives earlier this month. The vote underscored concern over the conflict, which began on February 28, including among some members of Trump's own party.

The measure was backed by four Republicans along with all but one Democrat, while two Republican senators did not vote. It instructs Trump to withdraw US armed forces from hostilities with or against Iran. However, its practical effect remains uncertain.

Under the 1973 War Powers Act, the resolution does not go to the White House for the president's signature. The White House has argued that the legislation is unconstitutional and therefore not binding. Legal experts have said the issue remains unsettled and may ultimately be decided in court. Scott Anderson, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and senior editor of Lawfare, said the administration was likely to disregard the measure on constitutional grounds and that it was unclear who would have legal standing to challenge that position.