Washington — US President Donald Trump is facing a major legal and constitutional test as a key deadline under the War Powers Resolution approaches, raising questions about the future of American military operations against Iran and the balance of authority between Congress and the White House.
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Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, a US president must terminate military action within 60 days of formally notifying Congress unless lawmakers authorize continued operations. The Trump administration notified Congress on March 2 following joint US-Israeli strikes launched on February 28, placing the legal deadline on May 1.
However, senior administration officials now argue that the deadline may no longer apply because a ceasefire with Iran, which reportedly took effect on April 7, effectively ended “hostilities” under the law. According to the administration’s interpretation, the ceasefire paused or terminated the War Powers clock, allowing military and strategic operations to continue without seeking fresh congressional approval.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced that position during testimony before Congress, stating that the legal timeline “pauses or stops in a ceasefire.”
The interpretation has triggered immediate criticism from lawmakers and constitutional experts. Democratic Senator Tim Kaine rejected the administration’s argument, saying the War Powers law does not allow a president to suspend the 60-day requirement simply because of a temporary truce.
The debate has intensified broader concerns in Washington over presidential war powers and congressional oversight. Passed after the Vietnam War, the War Powers Resolution was intended to prevent prolonged military engagement without legislative approval. Legal analysts note that the law contains no explicit language allowing a ceasefire to reset or pause the statutory clock, particularly while military pressure and economic actions continue.
Critics argue that the current confrontation with Iran extends beyond direct military exchanges. While open hostilities have eased under the ceasefire, the crisis continues through economic pressure and strategic measures. Iran has reportedly restricted shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz, while the United States has maintained naval pressure targeting Iranian oil exports.
The standoff has contributed to renewed volatility in global energy markets, with oil prices climbing amid fears of wider disruption to international shipping and fuel supplies.
Inside Congress, the political response remains sharply divided. Democratic lawmakers have repeatedly pushed resolutions demanding that the administration either seek authorization or end military operations, but those efforts have failed. Republican leadership has largely backed the president or avoided direct confrontation, although some Republicans have expressed concern over bypassing Congress.
Senator Susan Collins stated that the 60-day limit “is not a suggestion; it is a requirement,” emphasizing that any expanded military action should involve a clear strategy and congressional authorization.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran remain uncertain. President Trump has dismissed claims that negotiations have stalled, insisting Iran remains interested in reaching an agreement. Reports indicate that US Central Command is simultaneously preparing contingency plans should the ceasefire collapse, including options for renewed strikes and expanded maritime operations.
Analysts warn that if the administration proceeds without congressional approval, the dispute could trigger a significant constitutional confrontation over war-making authority in the United States.
