US Senate Republicans on Thursday blocked a Democratic effort to end the war with Iran. The Senate voted 49-50 against a House-passed war powers resolution.
The conflict has now passed the 200-day mark, during which 19 American service members have been killed. The measure had previously passed the House with bipartisan support.
Senate Democrats, including minority leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Andy Kim, forced the vote under the War Powers Resolution. Senator Ron Wyden acknowledged the ongoing challenge, stating, “We’re going to stay at it until we win.”
Senator Tim Kaine noted a shift in Republican candidate positions, stating, “We started with one Republican vote, and we have five now.” However, Senator Dan Sullivan expressed opposition to removing American forces while troops are in contact.
Senator Kim cited a Congressional Budget Office report estimating the war cost nearly $40bn in its first four months. He also stated that over 750 US service members have been injured.