U.S. Congress rebukes Trump over Iran war as public support plummets

In a historic bipartisan rebuke, the U.S. Senate voted 50-48 on Tuesday to direct President Donald Trump to halt military action against Iran, joining the House in passing a War Powers Resolution – the first time both chambers have done so since the 1973 War Powers Act.

The measure, which passed the House earlier this month with slim Republican support, reflects growing congressional unease over the unpopular conflict that began on 28 February with US-Israeli strikes on Iran and ended with a 7 April ceasefire . Four Republicans – Senators Susan Collins, Rand Paul, Bill Cassidy, and Lisa Murkowski – joined Democrats in backing the resolution.

It was the first time both chambers of Congress had passed a resolution directing a president to remove U.S. armed forces from hostilities since the War Powers Resolution, more commonly known as the War Powers Act, was enacted in 1973.

While likely to remain largely symbolic, the vote was a setback for Trump, who until recently had enjoyed near-unanimous support from Republican members of Congress.

It also comes as the administration is expected to ask Congress to authorize tens of billions of dollars to pay for the war.

The congressional action comes amid fresh signs of political damage from the war. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released Tuesday found that only 24% of Americans believe the conflict was worth its costs, while just 23% think the U.S. is now stronger vis-à-vis Iran. Trump’s approval rating fell to 34%, tying the lowest point of his second term. A majority (63%) doubt that the preliminary peace deal signed on 17 June will lead to lasting peace.

Bonuses for Iran

Meanwhile, the administration moved to implement parts of the fragile agreement. The U.S. Treasury issued a 60-day waiver on Iran sanctions starting Monday, allowing Tehran to resume oil sales and receive payments. Trump warned that he would “do what I have to do” if Iran fails to comply. High-level talks in Switzerland produced a roadmap for a permanent deal within 60 days, including mechanisms for nuclear inspections and managing frozen assets, though Iranian officials pushed back on some U.S. interpretations.

Vice President JD Vance described the talks as laying “a very good foundation” for a final agreement, while Iranian officials emphasised the need for precise implementation of the interim deal, including steps on Lebanon and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

The war has proven costly: it disrupted global oil supplies, damaged energy infrastructure, and contributed to higher gasoline prices in the U.S. The preliminary deal has already led to falling crude prices, but many Americans continue to feel the economic pinch. With midterm elections looming in November, the Iran conflict and related domestic issues are weighing heavily on Republican prospects.

Legal experts say the constitutionality of the War Powers Resolution remains unsettled, with courts likely to decide its practical effect. Democrats have vowed further votes to force Republicans to take a public stand on the war.

The developments mark a significant shift: from military confrontation to fragile diplomacy, even as Congress asserts greater oversight and public scepticism grows. Trump continues to push for a comprehensive deal while facing pressure both at home and from hardliners within his own party.

With Reuters

Caption: US Senator Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader, speaks to the media during the weekly Senate Democrat Leadership press conference after luncheons, at the US Capitol, in Washington, DC, USA, 23 June 2026. EPA/GRAEME SLOAN