Donald Trump Congress ceasefire Strait of Hormuz Iran foreign policy U.S.-Iran conflict military operations War Powers Resolution

Donald Trump boards Air Force One on April 24, 2026, at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

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Trump Tells Congress the Iran War Is Over

President Donald Trump has declared the US-Iran war officially “terminated” in a letter to Congress, citing an ongoing ceasefire that has prevented exchanges of fire since April 7, 2026. The letter, sent on the legal deadline for winding down US military operations near Iran, asserts that hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have ended.

“There has been no exchange of fire between the United States Forces and Iran since April 7, 2026. The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have been terminated.”

However, the claim is met with skepticism as critical military actions continue.

Ongoing Military Actions Despite Ceasefire

While large-scale combat has subsided, key US operations remain in place:

  • A US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is still enforced, with recent incidents including a US strike on an Iranian-flagged ship allegedly violating the blockade.
  • US forces continue to operate near Iran, maintaining a presence that could escalate at any time.
  • President Trump has repeatedly threatened renewed full-scale conflict if a permanent resolution is not reached.

Legal Loophole or Strategic Move?

Trump’s declaration appears designed to circumvent the War Powers Resolution, which mandates that the US must end military engagements within 60 days of notification to Congress—unless Congress authorizes the conflict. To date, Congress has not voted to approve the conflict, nor has the administration pursued a 30-day extension of the deadline.

This tactic is not unique to Trump. Stephen Rademaker, a former assistant secretary of state, noted in the Washington Post that presidents from both parties have historically exploited loopholes in the War Powers Resolution to avoid congressional oversight.

What’s Next?

The legal and military landscape remains uncertain as the administration navigates the fine line between declaring victory and maintaining pressure on Iran.

Source: Vox
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