Senate blocks Iran war powers resolution for fifth time, 47-52 vote

Senate Republicans blocked a Democratic resolution to end U.S. military operations against Iran for the fifth time on April 23, 2026, voting 47-52 to table the measure. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky was the only Republican to vote in favor; Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania was the only Democrat opposed. The vote came eight days before the War Powers Resolution's 60-day deadline expires on May 1, after which President Trump must either secure congressional authorization to continue the conflict or certify in writing that he needs 30 additional days to withdraw U.S. forces. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer pledged to keep bringing resolutions to the floor, saying Democrats have six more queued up. The Iran war, known as Operation Epic Fury, began on February 28, 2026, with airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear facilities.