The Republican-controlled US Senate voted 50-48 to approve a measure instructing President Donald Trump to halt the war in Iran or seek congressional approval before continuing military action. A handful of Republicans joined Democrats in the vote.

The same measure was passed by the US House of Representatives earlier this month. However, the resolution is largely symbolic as it does not carry the force of law and will not be sent to Trump for his signature.

This marks the first time both chambers of Congress have approved a concurrent resolution instructing a president to end military action since the War Powers Resolution of 1973 was enacted.

Trump criticized the resolution as "poorly timed and meaningless," writing on Truth Social that the senators "have just made my job more difficult, but I will get it done, one way or the other."

Middle East analyst Laura Blumenfeld called it "more of a slap on a wrist than a handcuff" due to its non-binding nature, but noted it reflects American public sentiment.

Four Republican senators—Rand Paul, Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, and Bill Cassidy—voted with Democrats. Democratic Senator John Fetterman was the only member of his party to vote against it.

The vote highlights divisions among Republicans ahead of November's midterm elections. The same day, the Pentagon requested some $80 billion from Congress, mostly to fund the Iran war.

Federal law requires congressional approval for military actions exceeding 60 days. The White House argues the April ceasefire reset the clock, but critics dispute this interpretation.

Source: www.bbc.co.uk