US House Democrats plan floor action to force Iran war powers vote

US House Democrats are preparing a procedural push Thursday to force consideration of an Iran war powers resolution.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries outlined the plan in a letter to fellow lawmakers on Wednesday.

"To the extent Republican leadership refuses to bring Congress back this week, House Democrats will demand passage of the War Powers Resolution introduced by Ranking Member Greg Meeks via unanimous consent at the next pro forma session on Thursday, April 9 at 11:30 a.m. sharp," Jeffries said.

Jeffries said that, led by Rep. Glenn Ivey, all members who are in Washington are invited to join the effort on the House floor.

"Immediately following the pro forma session, House Democrats will speak directly to the American people from the Capitol grounds," he added.

The lower chamber is currently on a two-week recess, with its next votes set for April 14.

Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday that the upper chamber will vote next week on an Iran war powers resolution.

The US and Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire on Tuesday, pausing the war that unsettled the Gulf and global markets and raised fears about the security of regional energy infrastructure and shipping lanes.

Several Democratic lawmakers have renewed calls for President Donald Trump's removal from office, citing threats of war crimes, reckless decision-making, and unfitness to serve.