US Senate Blocks Iran War Powers Resolution as Conflict Costs Reach $25 Billion
On May 1, 2026, U.S. Senate Republicans blocked a war powers resolution intended to restrict President Trump’s ability to strike Iran without congressional authorization. The 47-50 vote came just as the Pentagon estimated the conflict has cost $25 billion to date, mostly for munitions. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the expenditure, stating the 60-day War Powers deadline is paused by ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Democrats criticized the spending as 'wastage' amid a domestic cost-of-living crisis.
Date: May 1, 2026
Location: United States
Conflict: US-Iran Conflict
Category: diplomacy
Severity: MEDIUM
Source: The Straits Times