Trump Tells Congress Iran Hostilities Over, Sidesteps War Powers Deadline

US president tells Congress fighting ended in April ceasefire while maintaining military pressure, triggering legal and political backlash.

United States, PUREWILAYAH.COM — Donald Trump formally notified Congress that hostilities between the United States and Iran have ended, a move widely seen as an attempt to bypass the 60-day deadline for congressional authorization under the War Powers Resolution.

In a letter dated May 1 addressed to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Trump stated that combat operations ceased following a ceasefire initiated on April 7, which has since been extended.

“There has been no exchange of fire between United States Forces and Iran since April 7, 2026. The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026 have been terminated,” Trump wrote.

Ceasefire Used to Halt War Powers Clock

The White House argues that the cessation of hostilities effectively pauses the War Powers timeline, which requires the president to obtain congressional approval within 60 days of initiating military action or withdraw forces.

The conflict began on February 28 under what Trump described as “Operation Epic Fury,” marking a large-scale US–Israeli military escalation against Iran. According to the administration, the April 7 ceasefire halts the legal countdown, allowing the executive branch to avoid immediate congressional authorization.

US War Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced this position, telling lawmakers that the current ceasefire effectively stops the 60-day clock.

Military Pressure Continues Despite Ceasefire

Despite declaring an end to active hostilities, Washington continues to maintain a significant military presence across the region, including naval deployments and an ongoing blockade targeting Iranian ports and vessels.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that the maritime restrictions will remain in place until conditions return to what he described as “pre–February 27 freedom of navigation” in the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.

Trump acknowledged that “the threat posed by Iran remains significant,” adding that US forces will continue repositioning to counter Iranian and allied forces while safeguarding American interests.

Legal Challenges and Political Backlash Mount

The administration’s interpretation is expected to face serious challenges in Congress, particularly from Democrats who argue the war lacked proper authorization from the outset.

Legal experts have also questioned the White House’s position, noting that the continuation of a naval blockade—widely regarded under international law as an act of war—undermines claims that hostilities have ended.

The War Powers Resolution, enacted in 1973, requires presidents to notify Congress within 48 hours of military engagement and limits unauthorized operations to 60 days.

Trump, however, reiterated longstanding executive branch objections to the law, stating that many consider it unconstitutional.

Congress Remains Divided

Efforts to curb the administration’s war authority have repeatedly failed, with recent congressional votes to restrict military action against Iran falling short.

Some Republican lawmakers have called for formal authorization if hostilities resume, while others continue to back the president’s approach. Democrats, meanwhile, are pushing for stronger oversight.

Senator Todd Young emphasized that any renewed conflict must involve Congress, stressing the legislature’s constitutional role in decisions of war.

The administration has signaled it is not preparing for immediate new strikes, opting instead to sustain economic and military pressure—particularly through maritime restrictions—as part of its broader strategy toward Iran.