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US President Donald Trump has told Congress that hostilities with Iran have “terminated”, even as American forces remain deployed in the region and tensions persist.The assertion came in a letter sent on Friday ahead of a May 1 deadline under the War Powers Resolution of 1973 requiring congressional approval for continued military action.“The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have terminated,” Trump wrote to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley.However, he also warned that “the threat posed by Iran… remains significant,” signalling the conflict may not be fully over.The move effectively sidesteps the legal requirement for authorisation, with the administration arguing that the 60-day clock does not apply due to a ceasefire that began in early April.War secretary Pete Hegseth said the US is “in a ceasefire right now,” which means “the 60-day clock pauses or stops,” reported news agency AP.
GOP divided, Democrats push back
While most Republicans have avoided challenging Trump, some have expressed unease. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he does not currently see a vote on authorising force, while others signalled Congress should eventually weigh in.Senator Susan Collins said the deadline “is not a suggestion, it is a requirement,” and called for a clear strategy to end the conflict. Indiana Senator Todd Young added lawmakers “must ensure that the people… weigh in” if hostilities resume.Democrats strongly rejected the administration’s interpretation. Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “There’s no pause button in the Constitution… The blockade alone is a continuing act of war.”The debate refers to broader concerns over presidential war powers, with Trump’s campaign in Iran launched two months ago without congressional approval. Critics argue the continued naval blockade and Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz indicate active hostilities.House Armed Services Committee Democrat Adam Smith said he did not expect the administration to follow the law, underlining growing partisan tensions.
