Trump Claims Iran Hostilities Have Ended, Sidestepping Congressional War Approval Deadline

This document details a significant assertion of presidential war powers that sidesteps congressional oversight, raising questions about the balance of power in authorizing military engagements.

• •President Trump asserted in a letter that hostilities with Iran have "terminated," bypassing a May 1 deadline for congressional approval.
• •The administration argues that the War Powers Resolution's 60-day deadline does not apply because a ceasefire began in early April.
• •Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, Congress must declare war or authorize force within 60 days, or 90 days with an extension.
• •Several Republican senators expressed a desire for Congress to have a say in authorizing the use of force, with some indicating they would not support continued funding without a vote.
• •Democrats and some legal scholars argue that the deadline is a requirement and that the blockade constitutes a continuing act of war.