U.S. Senate votes for the first time to halt Iran war

In a historic vote, the United States Senate has for the first time approved a measure to end the war against Iran, delivering a notable political setback to President Donald Trump. The resolution passed with a 50-48 vote, aligning with a similar decision made earlier in June by the House of Representatives concerning the conflict that began on February 28, 2026.

The resolution formally directs President Trump to cease military operations or obtain explicit congressional authorization to continue the war. While the measure does not hold the force of law, its symbolic weight is considerable, underscoring the growing unpopularity of a conflict that has now lasted nearly four months. This vote also exposes significant fissures within the Republican party, with four Republican senators breaking ranks to support the measure.

Notably, Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania was the sole Democrat to vote against the resolution. The four Republicans who supported the anti-war measure were Senators Rand Paul of Kentucky, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine, and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana. This bipartisan support for ending the conflict comes despite recent Republican skepticism towards a ceasefire memorandum previously negotiated by the Trump administration with Iran.

The Trump administration's agreement with Iran allows for 60 days of negotiations for a peace deal. However, concerns persist regarding the political cost of the unpopular war and its detrimental impact on the U.S. economy. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer stated, "Every second that this war continues, the cost to the American people increases." This legislative action marks the first time since the War Powers Resolution of 1973 that both chambers of Congress have jointly urged a president to end a military conflict.