Trump Faces Legal Deadline as Iran War Powers Clock Expires Without Congressional Approval

On February 28, President Donald Trump authorized military strikes against Iran. More than 60 days have now passed since the first bombs fell, triggering a legal requirement under the War Powers Resolution of 1973.

Under the resolution, Congress—which holds the constitutional power to declare war—granted the president authority to deploy troops into hostilities or situations indicating imminent conflict. However, it also mandated that such operations must conclude within 60 days unless Congress formally extends them. Trump notified the Senate on March 2, and May 1 marks the 60-day deadline.

By that date, Trump must either withdraw U.S. forces or secure congressional authorization to continue. Lawmakers, including Republicans, have signaled reluctance to fund prolonged military action without explicit approval.

"From the beginning, my position has been that the President's actions in Iran have been consistent with his legal authority under the War Powers Resolution of 1973. However, that same law is clear that after 60 days, military action must begin to wind down unless Congress provides formal authorization."

— Sen. John Curtis (R–Utah)

"I do not believe we should engage in open-ended military action without clear accountability. Congress has a role."

— Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R–Alaska)

Despite these concerns, the administration claimed hostilities had ended. In a May 1 letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R–La.) and Senate President pro tempore Chuck Grassley (R–Iowa), Trump stated:

"The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have terminated."

He added, "Despite the success of United States operations against the Iranian regime and continued efforts to secure a lasting peace, the threat posed by Iran to the United States and our Armed Forces remains significant."

The administration has repeatedly argued that a ceasefire—announced on April 7—ended the conflict, though U.S. and Iranian forces continue enforcing a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has vowed to maintain the blockade until Iran abandons its nuclear weapons program.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth suggested to the Senate Armed Services Committee on April 30 that the 60-day clock "pauses or stops in a ceasefire." However, legal experts question whether this interpretation holds weight, leaving the door open for renewed hostilities. If conflict resumes, Trump could potentially restart the 60-day countdown without congressional input.

This moment presents a critical test for Congress to assert its constitutional role as a coequal branch of government and take decisive action on the use of military force in Iran.