Trump Admin Claims Ceasefire Pauses Legal Deadline to Seek Congress Approval for Iran War

The Trump administration is doubling down on its claim that the 60-day deadline to seek congressional approval for its war with Iran has been put on hold, citing an ongoing ceasefire as justification. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told senators on Thursday that the “clock pauses or stops” during the ceasefire, which began in early April following US and Israeli strikes that killed Iran’s supreme leader and sparked retaliatory attacks.

This argument directly challenges the War Powers Resolution, a 1973 law designed to constrain presidential war-making powers by requiring the president to end military hostilities within 60 days unless Congress explicitly authorizes continuation. Democratic Senator Tim Kaine pushed back, stating that the statute does not support pausing the clock and warning that the deadline—set for Friday—poses a crucial legal question.

A senior Trump administration official claimed hostilities had “terminated” and pointed to the absence of armed conflict since April 7 as evidence. Yet, no formal peace deal has been reached, and the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, disrupting global trade and underscoring that the conflict’s economic and geopolitical consequences persist.

Democrats in Congress have repeatedly tried to force the administration to obtain authorization, but Republican opposition has largely stalled these efforts. Some Republicans, however, are reportedly reconsidering their stance after the 60-day window closes. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has disclosed the Iran operations have cost the US roughly $25 billion so far.

This administration’s attempt to sidestep constitutional checks by exploiting a ceasefire loophole is the latest example of Trump’s disregard for democratic accountability. By refusing to seek formal congressional approval for a war that risks further destabilizing the Middle East and the global economy, the administration is deepening the crisis of executive overreach and eroding the rule of law. We will continue to track this story and hold those in power accountable.