Trump’s Iran War Hits 60 Days — Congress Still Silent on Legality

Sixty days after President Trump launched the US-Israel military campaign against Iran, the clock is ticking on a crucial legal deadline. Under the War Powers Act of 1973, the president must secure congressional authorization to continue hostilities beyond 60 days or cease military action. That deadline arrives May 1, yet Congress shows no sign of asserting its constitutional authority.

Experts like David Janovsky from the Project on Government Oversight emphasize that Congress should not be passive. “The question is, does Congress want a say in what’s happening?” Janovsky told Al Jazeera. “Either to say you have to stop right now, or to take some ownership and exercise some oversight.”

But the reality is stark. Republican leadership, controlling both chambers, has blocked attempts to rein in Trump’s war powers. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Armed Services Committee Chairman James Risch have remained silent on introducing any legislation to authorize or halt the conflict. A vote would force lawmakers to publicly endorse or oppose the war — a politically risky move as midterms approach.

Some Republicans express private unease. Senators Thom Tillis and Susan Collins oppose extending military action without approval, while Lisa Murkowski is pushing for a new Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to legitimize the ongoing campaign. Others complain about a lack of information from the Trump administration but stop short of demanding a vote.

If Congress does nothing, the war enters a legally dubious phase. Trump could request a 30-day extension solely for troop withdrawal but cannot launch new offensives without congressional consent. Should he ignore this, the conflict could continue indefinitely on shaky legal grounds, with courts historically reluctant to intervene.

This silence and inaction reveal a disturbing pattern of Congress abdicating its war powers, enabling executive overreach and unchecked military escalation. The war’s political fallout is already fracturing Trump’s coalition, alienating independents and even some MAGA supporters. Yet Congress remains unwilling to confront the constitutional crisis it faces.

The question is clear: will Congress own its responsibility or continue to enable Trump’s war of choice? The answer will shape the future of American democracy and the rule of law.