American lawmakers are set to once again attempt to pass a resolution next week aimed at restricting President Donald Trump’s ability to wage war on Iran, requiring congressional approval for any further military strikes. The announcement was made Wednesday by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, hours after Trump agreed to a two-week ceasefire.
“Congress must restore its authority, especially at this dangerous moment,” Schumer said during a press conference at his New York office.
Trump approved the ceasefire on Tuesday, less than two hours before his deadline for Tehran to reopen the blocked Strait of Hormuz, which had threatened destructive attacks on Iran’s civilian infrastructure.
Trump’s threat, which implied that an entire civilization could face destruction, drew global concern and criticism from Democrats, dozens of whom have called for his removal from office. The 1949 Geneva Conventions on humanitarian conduct in war prohibit attacks on locations deemed essential to civilians.
Schumer described Trump’s statements as “irresponsible,” criticizing the military campaign for failing to weaken Iran’s government or curb its nuclear program, while global fuel prices have surged.
Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful. The Trump administration has sought to frame the conflict as a decisive victory, although senior U.S. military officials indicated that forces remain ready to resume combat operations if necessary.
The White House has defended Trump’s actions as lawful and within his rights as Commander-in-Chief to protect the United States by authorizing limited military operations.
In recent months, Senate and House Democrats have repeatedly attempted—and failed—to pass resolutions limiting the president’s war powers, requiring congressional authorization before military action. Republican supporters of Trump, who hold narrow majorities in both chambers, have largely backed his policies. While the U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war, this limitation does not apply to short-term operations or immediate threats to national security.
