Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Mar 24: Leading Democrats intensified pressure on President Donald Trump over the ongoing Iran conflict, warning of unclear objectives, escalating costs, and the risk of a prolonged war with no defined end.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said the conflict, now entering its fourth week, lacks a clear strategy or exit plan. Speaking on the Senate floor, Schumer criticised the White House for inconsistent messaging and described the President’s leadership as “confused, or lying, or both.”
Linking the war to domestic economic impacts, Schumer highlighted rising fuel prices: “A month ago, the national average price of gas was about $2.93 a gallon. Today, it is about $3.94 — up roughly a dollar in just one month,” he said, calling it one of the sharpest monthly spikes since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He urged Senate Republicans to ensure accountability, transparency, and a coherent strategy.
Other Democratic lawmakers echoed similar concerns. Congressman Greg Landsman said military objectives had largely been achieved and called for ending the operation. “We have destroyed nearly all of the regime’s missile and drone launch capacity,” he noted, stressing there should be no ground troop deployment or expansion of the mission.
Senator Peter Welch opposed a reported $200 billion funding request for the war, warning of significant economic fallout. “Gas prices at the pump are up at least a dollar. The average American family will pay an additional $2,000 a year in gas,” Welch said, adding that heating and fertiliser costs are also rising. He pledged to oppose further military escalation, calling it a potential “forever war.”
Congresswoman Sara Jacobs described the conflict as a major policy failure, saying, “There is absolutely no plan for what comes next,” and criticised the lack of clarity regarding civilian harm, costs, or the ultimate goals of the operation.
The mounting criticism underscores growing concern in Congress over the administration’s approach to Iran, particularly as economic pressures mount at home and strategic objectives remain undefined.