The United States Senate on Wednesday rejected a proposal to halt President Donald Trump’s military offensive in Iran. The motion, introduced by Democratic Senators Tim Kaine, Adam Schiff, and Chuck Schumer, received 47 votes in favor and 52 against, effectively allowing the ongoing military campaign to continue. The proposal also sought to reaffirm Congress’s constitutional authority to approve any act of war by the United States.

During the debate, Democrats accused Trump of bypassing Congress and offering inconsistent justifications for the conflict, while most Republican senators defended the president’s actions. Supporters of the motion argued that Trump exceeded his constitutional powers by joining Israel in the war against Iran, noting that only Congress can declare war except in cases of imminent threat. Republican Senator Rand Paul broke ranks with his party to support the proposal, emphasizing that no war should proceed without debate and a formal vote.

A similar vote was scheduled in the House of Representatives the following day. The Senate decision came days after the United States and Israel launched a joint assault on Iran, citing Tehran’s renewed nuclear and missile activities.