According to an Associated Press report, the U.S. government argues that the war with Iran has ended due to the ceasefire established in early April, and therefore it does not require congressional authorization under the War Powers Resolution. This stance has faced criticism from some lawmakers and experts.
According to the report, the Trump administration believes that the ceasefire effectively marks the end of hostilities, meaning the 1973 War Powers Resolution does not apply in this case. This law mandates that the government must obtain congressional authorization if military operations continue beyond 60 days.
Pete Hegseth previously stated during a Senate hearing that the ceasefire had “stopped” the war. According to him, the administration interprets this as meaning that the 60-day countdown is paused.
Additionally, a senior government official emphasized that the conflict, which began on February 28, has now ended. He added that since the ceasefire began on April 7, there has been no exchange of fire between the U.S. and Iran.
However, the Associated Press reports that despite the ceasefire extension, tensions in the region remain high. The report states that Iran maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz, while the U.S. Navy continues to enforce a blockade to prevent Iranian oil exports.
Under the War Powers Resolution, Trump was required to either seek congressional approval or end military operations by the end of the designated period, although a 30-day extension is also possible under the law. This issue has now become a key point of contention between the U.S. government and Congress.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
