U.S. President Donald Trump expressed sharp criticism towards the Senate following its vote to stop military actions against Iran.
Trump labeled the decision as 'bad' and 'pointless' in a post on his "Truth Social" platform on Wednesday.
He asserted that Iran was on the brink of collapse and was ready to offer the U.S. virtually anything. He wrote: "Iran was on the verge of defeat, ready to fall, and was willing to give us almost anything. For the first time in decades, it showed substantial respect towards the U.S. and its President, but the U.S. Senate decided to conduct an ill-timed, meaningless vote on the War Powers Act."
He further argued that the Senate had aided the enemy with its move, complicating the mission, although he emphasized he would complete it one way or another.
A Setback for Trump
This comes after the Senate supported legislation demanding Trump to cease U.S. military actions in Iran, marking the Congress's latest opposition to the Republican president. The Congress voted with a slim majority of 50 in favor versus 48 against the War Powers Resolution, reflecting growing concerns even among some of Trump's fellow Republicans over this unpopular conflict that erupted on February 28.
The vote was highly partisan, with all Democrats but one supporting the decision, alongside four Republicans. Two Republicans abstained from voting.
It remains unclear how this will impact the ongoing conflict as the Trump administration negotiates a deal with Iran.
The First Time
This marks the first instance in which both Congressional houses have passed a resolution requiring the U.S. President to withdraw armed forces from combat, as outlined in the War Powers Resolution of 1973.
Though this vote is largely symbolic, it represents a significant setback for Trump, who until recently enjoyed nearly full backing from Republican Congressional members. Republicans hold a slim majority in both the Senate and House, according to Reuters.
Under the War Powers Act, such a resolution does not go to the White House for Trump's signature. However, the White House maintains that this bill is unconstitutional and therefore not binding.
The House also passed the legislation with minimal Republican support, voting in favor of the resolution by 215 to 208, with four Republicans and all Democrats supporting it.