Claudio Grisales

Thune says the president has broad authorities under Article II of the Constitution when it comes to defending America's national security interests.

However, Democrats and other critics of the war say the president should have consulted Congress, not just notified them of the plans.

Thune is countering those arguments, saying the effort will eliminate a threat that could have cost countless numbers of Americans' lives.

The senator also acknowledged while many questions remain about what comes next, that it's largely up to the Iranian people.

Claudia Rosales, NPR News, the Capitol.

In an extremely rare scene in Republican-controlled Washington, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer moved to approve the bipartisan bill under a voice vote with no objections.

House Republican leaders said they voted to approve the plan with the expectation the Senate would amend it to address their concerns.

However, Senate Majority Leader John Thune said after the overwhelming House vote of 427 to 1, that was no longer necessary.

And this way, the senators did not have to have their votes recorded.

In a major reversal, Trump in recent days said he'd sign the bill when it reaches his desk.

Claudia Rosales, NPR News, the Capitol.