U.S. Senate Advances Measures to Curb War Powers Amid Iranian Threats of Global Retaliation

The U.S. Senate has advanced a significant war powers resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s ability to launch additional military strikes against Iran without prior congressional approval. The measure moved forward with bipartisan support, as four Republicans joined Democrats in a rare check on executive military authority. This domestic political shift comes as tensions remain high following reports of U.S. forces boarding and redirecting an Iranian oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. In Tehran, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has reportedly taken a firmer diplomatic line, directing that Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium remain inside the country. This directive complicates ongoing negotiations that previously explored shipping materials abroad to reduce nuclear escalation. Meanwhile, Iran is asserting greater operational control over the Strait of Hormuz. The newly established Persian Gulf Strait Authority has designated a "controlled maritime zone," claiming authority to require vessel authorization, though the IRGC noted it still coordinated the passage of 26 vessels in the last 24 hours to maintain managed traffic flows. International mediation continues via Pakistan, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi meeting IRGC commanders in Tehran to relay messages between the conflicting parties. While China has publicly called for a comprehensive ceasefire through communications with Russia, the IRGC has issued its most blunt warning yet, threatening to take the conflict "beyond the region" if further attacks occur. The situation remains a fragile mix of maritime posturing, rigid nuclear bargaining, and a growing domestic debate in Washington over the scope of presidential military power.