U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he does not intend to seek congressional approval to continue any military action against Iran, following the expiration of the 60-day period allowed for military operations without legislative authorization.
Trump formally informed congressional leaders—Mike Johnson and Chuck Grassley—that hostilities with Iran have ended after pressure from lawmakers to request authorization for continuing the conflict, which has entered its third month.
In a letter, Trump stated: “There has been no exchange of fire between U.S. forces and Iran since April 7, 2026. The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have ended.”
Under the U.S. Constitution, only Congress has the authority to declare war. However, the War Powers Resolution of 1973 allows the president to undertake limited military action in response to emergencies, provided congressional authorization is sought if deployments exceed 60 days.
The conflict began on February 28, but the White House formally notified Congress two days later, triggering the 60-day countdown, which expired on Friday.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said: “I don’t think what they’re asking for is constitutional. Those demanding this are not patriotic,” adding that such a request had never been made before.
Democratic opposition lawmakers rejected the president’s claim that hostilities have ended. Jeanne Shaheen, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the announcement does not reflect the reality of tens of thousands of U.S. troops still at risk in the region, ongoing threats of escalation, the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and rising prices in the United States.
She added in a statement: “President Trump launched this war without a strategy or legal authorization, and today’s declaration changes none of that.”
Since the conflict began, Democrats have repeatedly attempted to pass legislation to limit Trump’s military powers regarding Iran, but have been unsuccessful. Some Republican lawmakers have indicated they may reconsider their stance and push for congressional authorization after the deadline.
AFP
