‘That time has come’
While most Republicans have so far backed the president, unease is growing within the party as the deadline approaches.
Some Republicans have signaled they may reconsider their support if the war continues without a clear strategy or authorization.
Utah’s John Curtis said the deadline demands action, warning that continued operations require a firm constitutional footing.
“That same law is clear that after 60 days, military action must begin to wind down unless Congress provides formal authorization,” he said, adding that he would not support continued force without lawmakers weighing in.
Despite mounting pressure, efforts to block the war face steep odds. Even if a resolution passes the Senate, it would still need approval from the Republican-controlled House and could be vetoed by Trump.
The War Powers Act has rarely succeeded in limiting presidential war-making, with courts generally reluctant to intervene and disputes typically left to the political arena. But Democrats remained hopeful of reining Trump in.
“Some of my colleagues have indicated that the War Powers Act’s 60-day mark is the moment they may join our efforts to bring this war to its conclusion. That time has come,” said Senator Adam Schiff, who introduced Thursday’s failed resolution.
“After two months of war, thirteen service members’ lives lost, and billions of dollars squandered, it is time we recognised that the price we have paid is already too high.”