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Hudson Valley Congressman Pat Ryan is once again voicing his opposition to the ongoing conflict in Iran. During an appearance in Saugerties on Wednesday (April 8), Ryan expressed disappointment over the United States' involvement in another open-ended war in the Middle East. He also criticized President Donald Trump for failing to inform the American people and allies of his plans.
Ryan, a West Point graduate and combat veteran, highlighted the recent ceasefire agreement with Iran, brokered by Pakistani officials, which he believes leaves the United States in a weaker position. The agreement, announced just hours before President Trump's deadline, allows vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks, with Iran coordinating ship traffic. In return, the United States must release Iranian funds frozen in U.S. banks and help pay for Iran's reconstruction.
Despite the ceasefire, Ryan remains concerned about the lack of clarity regarding the war's goals and exit strategy. He has urged his Republican colleagues to halt the war, emphasizing that the actions by the White House are causing irreparable damage to the nation's global reputation. Ryan's stance contrasts with that of Rep. Mike Lawler, a Rockland County Republican, who supports the war and praised the ceasefire as a result of President Trump's tactics.
The conflict has deeply divided Congress along party lines, with Ryan and other Democratic veterans condemning Trump's threat to annihilate Iranian civilization as a potential war crime. They have called for immediate legislative action to prevent further escalation. As tensions continue, Ryan's criticism reflects growing unease about the war's impact on the United States' standing in the world.