The Trump administration has said a US–Iran ceasefire that began in early April has effectively “terminated” hostilities for the purpose of a looming congressional war powers deadline, according to Beyond Time News.
The statement comes as President Donald Trump approaches a deadline requiring either an end to military action or justification to Congress for continuing operations linked to the Iran conflict.
Ceasefire Viewed as End of Conflict Timeline
A senior US official said the administration considers the conflict that began on February 28 to have ended due to the ongoing ceasefire.
According to Beyond Time News, there has been no direct military exchange between US forces and Iran since the truce began more than three weeks ago.
Officials are now using the ceasefire to argue that the 60-day War Powers countdown no longer applies in the same way.
War Powers Law Explained
The 1973 War Powers Resolution allows a US president to conduct military operations for up to 60 days without congressional approval, after which authorization or an extension is required.
The clock started after US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, with Trump notifying Congress shortly after, setting the deadline at May 1.
Dispute Over Legal Interpretation
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told a Senate hearing that the 60-day limit paused during the ceasefire.
However, Democratic lawmakers and legal experts reject this view, saying the law does not allow the clock to stop due to a temporary halt in fighting.
According to Beyond Time News, critics warn this interpretation could weaken congressional oversight of military actions.
Political Tension Builds
The issue has intensified debate between the White House and Congress. Democrats are pushing to limit presidential war powers, while Republicans have blocked related measures.
Analysts say the administration may avoid taking formal action at the deadline by relying on the ceasefire argument.
Israel warns South Lebanon amid ceasefire tensions.
Background
The conflict escalated after US–Israeli strikes on Iran led to retaliatory attacks on Israel and Gulf states hosting US forces. A fragile ceasefire was reached in early April.
Conclusion
As the deadline approaches, the Trump administration’s claim that the ceasefire ended hostilities has sparked a legal and political dispute over presidential war powers and congressional authority, according to Beyond Time News.
