The Trump administration has declared that the ongoing ceasefire with Iran has effectively terminated hostilities, allowing the president to bypass a looming congressional deadline under the War Powers Resolution. A senior administration official stated on Thursday that for the purposes of the war powers resolution, the hostilities that began on February 28 have ended, citing the absence of any exchange of fire between US forces and Iran for over three weeks.
War Powers Deadline Looms
Under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, President Donald Trump faced a Friday deadline to either end military action in Iran or seek authorization from Congress, or request a 30-day extension citing unavoidable military necessity. However, the administration argues that the fragile ceasefire that began in early April marks the conclusion of active combat, thereby pausing the 60-day clock. This interpretation has been met with skepticism from Democrats and critics who question its validity.
Political Fallout
The situation presents a politically delicate moment for Republicans, as public frustration over the conflict and rising gas prices mounts. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated he does not plan to hold a vote on authorizing force in Iran, stating he is listening to his conference members. Republican Senator Kevin Cramer expressed willingness to vote for authorization if requested by Trump but questioned the constitutionality of the War Powers Resolution itself.
Senator Lisa Murkowski announced she will introduce a limited authorization for the use of military force when the Senate returns from recess if the administration fails to present a credible plan. She emphasized that Congress has a role and should not engage in open-ended military action without accountability.
Senate Blocks Democratic Resolution
Against this backdrop, the Republican-led Senate on Thursday rejected another Democratic attempt to curb Trump's war in Iran. The war powers resolution, which would have restricted military action until Congress authorized further operations, failed in a 47-50 vote. Two Republicans, Susan Collins and Rand Paul, crossed party lines to support the measure, while one Democrat, John Fetterman, opposed it. This marked the sixth time this year that Democrats have forced a vote on such a resolution, all of which have failed largely along party lines.
House Rejects Similar Measure
Earlier this month, the House narrowly rejected a similar war powers resolution introduced by Representative Greg Meeks. The vote was 213-214, with one Republican voting present. Notably, three Democrats who had previously opposed a similar measure in March switched their votes in favor, signaling growing opposition to the conflict within the party. Only one Democrat, Jared Golden, voted against the resolution, while Republican Thomas Massie was the sole GOP member to support it.
The War Powers Resolution of 1973 requires the president to terminate military operations after 60 days unless Congress declares war or authorizes the use of force. However, the administration maintains that the current ceasefire effectively pauses the timeline, a stance that continues to fuel debate over the balance of war powers between the executive and legislative branches.
