Senate Democrats block defence bill over Iran war, Israel military integration

Senate Democrats block defence bill over Iran war, Israel military integration

Senate Democrats have voted to block the debate on annual defence policy, objecting to Trump’s war on Iran as well as provisions that would more closely integrate the US and Israeli militaries.

The Senate voted 50-46 against the opening debate on the National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA), with lawmakers almost entirely divided along party lines.

US Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer leaves after a news conference US Capitol on 17 June 2026 (Alex Wong/AFP)