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President Donald Trump told Congress on Friday that hostilities between the United States and Iran have “terminated,” stating that a ceasefire implemented last month effectively ended the conflict as a key legal deadline arrived.
The claim came as Trump reached the 60-day mark under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which requires presidents to withdraw U.S. forces from unauthorized military engagements unless Congress approves continued action. Despite the declaration, U.S. forces remain active in the region, and the administration has not ruled out additional strikes, The Washington Post reported.
In a letter to lawmakers, Trump argued that the absence of recent military exchanges signaled the end of hostilities.
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“There has been no exchange of fire between United States Forces and Iran since April 7, 2026,” Trump wrote. “The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have terminated.”
The president is arguing that because he implemented a cease-fire, that effectively reset the War Powers clock, so to speak, meaning any new military action in the region would simply restart the 60-day window.
President Trump perfectly plays the War Power Act with a letter to the Senate saying:
“On Apr. 7 I ordered a ceasefire…There has been no exchange of fire since…The hostilities that began on Feb. 28 are terminated”
He reset the clock on the War Powers Act.
He then states he… pic.twitter.com/WhtpdVI3uM
— Jim Hanson (@JimHansonDC) May 1, 2026
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War Secretary Pete Hegseth made a similar argument during testimony last week before the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Trump also questioned the constitutionality of the War Powers Resolution’s time limits, as have most all previous presidents since the law was passed toward the end of the Vietnam War. “Most people consider it totally unconstitutional,” Trump told reporters. “Also, we had a ceasefire, so that gives you additional time.”
Democrats quickly challenged that interpretation, arguing that conditions on the ground do not reflect an end to the conflict. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) dismissed the claim in blunt terms, while other lawmakers pointed to ongoing risks facing U.S. forces.
“President Trump declaring the war with Iran ‘terminated’ doesn’t reflect the reality that tens of thousands of U.S. service members in the region are still in harm’s way,” Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) said in a statement. She also cited continued tensions in key areas, including the Strait of Hormuz.
The dispute highlights long-standing tensions between Congress and the White House over war powers. The 1973 law was designed to limit unilateral military action by requiring congressional approval for extended conflicts, though presidents from both parties have challenged its constraints.
Previous administrations have taken similar positions. President Barack Obama continued military operations in Libya beyond the 60-day window without seeking formal authorization, while President Bill Clinton’s administration argued that congressional funding effectively authorized U.S. involvement in Kosovo.
The War Powers Resolution allows for an additional 30-day withdrawal period if a president certifies that continued military engagement is necessary to ensure a safe exit. The Trump administration does not appear to have formally invoked that provision.
Some Republicans have expressed concern about the lack of congressional authorization as the deadline passed. Sen. John Curtis said he would not support further funding for military operations against Iran without a formal declaration of war.
Sen. Susan Collins also emphasized Congress’s constitutional role, stating that authorization would be required if hostilities continued beyond the deadline.
“The Constitution gives Congress an essential role in decisions of war and peace, and the War Powers Act establishes a clear 60-day deadline,” Collins said.
The Senate this week rejected a war powers resolution that would have directed the president to withdraw U.S. forces. The measure failed on a 50-47 vote, with some Republicans joining Democrats in support.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and other Republicans have called on the administration to outline a clear strategy for ending the conflict. Lawmakers have also sought assurances that the situation is moving toward de-escalation.
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) said he expects the administration to provide clarity soon. “I’d hope they’d be able to come to us… and certify that this is on a path to being done,” Hawley said.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), while opposing the recent resolution, said she remains concerned that Congress has not formally authorized military action. She indicated she may introduce legislation if the administration does not present a clear plan.
