US Senate Passes Resolution Calling for End to Military Operations Against Iran

The US Senate approved a joint resolution on June 23, 2026, calling on President Donald Trump to cease military operations against Iran. The vote passed 50-48, with support from four Republican senators—Rand Paul, Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Bill Cassidy—while Democratic Senator John Fetterman voted against it. The resolution, previously passed by the House of Representatives with 215 votes in favor and 208 against, reflects growing bipartisan concern about the ongoing conflict that began in late February 2026.

While the resolution carries symbolic weight, it lacks binding legal force and does not require the president's signature. Under the 1973 War Powers Act, the president must cease military operations after 60 days unless Congress votes to declare war or authorize the use of force. The Trump administration has not sought such authorization from Congress, arguing instead that hostilities effectively ended with a ceasefire on April 17, 2026. The White House dismissed the Senate vote as insignificant, suggesting the absence of some Republican senators during the session contributed to its passage.

Despite the ceasefire, exchanges of fire between the United States and Iran have continued. In mid-June, Washington and Tehran signed a two-month memorandum of understanding aimed at halting military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon, removing sanctions on Iran, and establishing an Iran reconstruction fund. President Trump stated that both sides have reached preliminary agreements on nuclear oversight, sanctions relief, and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. According to Trump, Iran has agreed to allow international inspections of its nuclear facilities—a development he characterized as the key breakthrough enabling continued negotiations toward a broader peace agreement.