US lawmakers plan to make another attempt next week to pass a resolution that would stop the Iran war. It would also require President Donald Trump to seek Congress approval for any future military strikes. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer announced the move on Wednesday. This came just hours after Trump declared a two-week ceasefire.
Lawmakers now step up efforts to reclaim their constitutional role.
Schumer Slams Trump’s Approach as Reckless
“Congress must reassert its authority, especially at this dangerous moment,” Schumer told reporters at his New York office. Trump agreed to the ceasefire on Tuesday. This happened barely two hours before his deadline for Iran to reopen the blocked Strait of Hormuz or face major attacks on civilian sites. The president’s strong warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” sparked widespread global concern. It also drew sharp criticism from Democrats, many of whom demanded his removal from office.
Democrats argue that Trump’s actions violate the spirit of the 1949 Geneva Conventions. These conventions protect essential civilian infrastructure during conflicts. Schumer described the president’s statements as unhinged. He also pointed out that the war has failed to weaken Iran’s government or control its nuclear program. Meanwhile, global fuel prices continue to climb. Iran maintains that its nuclear activities remain entirely peaceful.
Democrats Demand Permanent End to Conflict
The Trump administration continues to call the operation a clear victory. Yet the top US general confirmed that American troops stand ready to resume fighting if needed. White House officials insist the strikes were legal. They say the strikes fall within the president’s powers as commander-in-chief to protect national interests. However, Democrats in both the Senate and House have repeatedly tried—and failed—in recent months to pass war powers resolutions. These resolutions would force Trump to obtain congressional approval before launching attacks.
Republicans, who hold narrow majorities in Congress, have largely stood behind Trump’s decisions. Although the Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war, presidents often bypass this for short operations. They also do this when they cite immediate threats. Separately, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries urged lawmakers to vote on a similar resolution. He told CNN, “We need a permanent end to Donald Trump’s reckless war of choice.”
This fresh push comes as the region tries to settle after weeks of tension. Many are hoping the ceasefire holds and prevents further escalation.
