President Donald Trump has stated that a ceasefire has effectively ended hostilities with Iran, asserting his authority to continue the conflict without congressional approval. In a letter to congressional leaders, Trump declared that there had been no recent military engagement with Iran since the ceasefire began on February 28, 2026. According to the 1973 War Powers Resolution, the president can only engage in military action for 60 days before seeking authorization from Congress or requesting a 30-day extension due to unavoidable military circumstances.
Despite Iranian attempts to restart negotiations with the U.S. through Pakistani mediators, Trump promptly dismissed the proposal. The 60-day period initiated by the first airstrikes two months ago was set to expire on May 1, with expectations that Trump would circumvent the deadline. The administration argued that the war powers law did not apply, branding it as unconstitutional and infringing on the president’s constitutional powers as commander-in-chief.
Addressing the deadline, Trump emphasized that a ceasefire was in place, granting additional time for resolution. He affirmed the intention to conclude the conflict properly and not prematurely withdraw from the situation. However, Democratic lawmakers criticized Trump’s handling of the war, highlighting the absence of an exit strategy and ongoing U.S. military actions as evidence of continued aggression.
While Trump’s Republican supporters have consistently backed his stance on the conflict, Democrats have pushed for resolutions to end the war or require congressional authorization. The Iran conflict has caused casualties, extensive damage, and economic disruptions globally, with polls showing public dissatisfaction with the war ahead of crucial upcoming elections. Despite constitutional provisions for Congress to declare war, short-term military operations can be initiated by the president in response to immediate threats.
As discussions persist on potential military actions to compel Iran to negotiate, Trump retains the option to restart the 60-day countdown if hostilities resume. This practice of restarting the clock has been common among presidents from both parties since the implementation of the war powers law following the Vietnam War, which was similarly unauthorized by Congress.
