Republicans block Iraq war debate

February 6, 2007
Republicans block Iraq war debate

A resolution opposing President George W Bush's decision to send extra troops to Iraq has failed
to advance in the US Senate, dealing a blow to war critics.

The measure needed 60 votes before the 100-member Senate could begin debate, but it got 49,
with 47 voting against.

Democratic senators, who backed the motion, said they would raise the issue again, possibly
later this week.