US lawmakers set to push back on Trump’s Iran war authority

US lawmakers plan to try again next week to pass a resolution aimed at halting the war in Iran and forcing President Donald Trump to obtain Congress’ approval for any further attacks, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said, hours after Trump announced a two-week ceasefire.

“Congress must reassert its authority, especially at this dangerous moment,” Schumer said during a press conference at his office in New York, Reuters reports.

Trump agreed to the ceasefire on Tuesday, less than two hours before his deadline for Tehran to reopen the blockaded Strait of Hormuz or face devastating attacks on its civilian infrastructure. His warning that “a whole civilization will die tonight” sparked global concern and censure from Democrats, dozens of whom called for Trump’s removal from office. The 1949 Geneva Conventions prohibit attacks on sites considered essential for civilians.

Schumer criticized Trump’s statements as “unhinged” and argued that the war has failed to weaken Iran’s government or curb its nuclear program, while global fuel prices have risen. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful. The Trump administration has portrayed the conflict as a decisive victory, although the top US general said US forces remain ready to resume fighting.

The White House maintains that Trump’s actions are legal and within his rights as commander-in-chief to protect the US through limited military operations.

Democrats in both the Senate and House have repeatedly attempted to pass war powers resolutions requiring Trump to obtain congressional authorization before launching military operations, but have so far been unsuccessful. Trump’s fellow Republicans in Congress, who hold slim majorities in both chambers, have largely supported his policies. While the US Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war, that restriction does not apply to short-term operations or actions taken in response to an immediate threat.

Separately, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York said the House should also vote on a resolution to curb the war. “We need a permanent end to Donald Trump’s reckless war of choice,” Jeffries said.

By Vafa Guliyeva