Senate vote on Iran war powers fails again as GOP opposition grows
A Senate vote to require congressional approval before the conflict with Iran can continue has failed again, even as Republican opposition to the effort appears to be growing.
The latest shift came from Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who became the newest Republican to back a move to halt the conflict and force President Donald Trump to seek approval from Congress.
The vote is significant because it reflects a widening split within the Republican Party over the administration's handling of the conflict.
It also keeps the question of war powers in the centre of the political debate in Washington.
The measure was designed to limit the president's ability to continue military action without lawmakers' consent.
Supporters have argued that Congress should have a direct role in any decision to extend the conflict.
Murkowski's change of position adds to signs that some Republicans are becoming less willing to support open-ended military involvement.
The development may increase pressure on party leaders as the issue returns to the Senate.
The row provided does not give the final vote tally or any further details on the timing of the next step.
