Trump Bypasses War Powers Deadline to Continue Iran Conflict

President Donald Trump bypassed a May 1 legal deadline to secure congressional approval for military actions in Iran, asserting in a letter to congressional leaders that hostilities have terminated. The conflict, known as Operation Epic Fury, began on February 28, 2026, with joint U.S. and Israeli airstrikes. The administration argues the 60-day clock mandated by the War Powers Resolution of 1973 paused or stopped due to a ceasefire that began on April 7.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee that the ceasefire effectively paused the legal clock. However, Democratic lawmakers and some Republicans, including Senators Susan Collins and Rand Paul, disputed this interpretation. They argue that the U.S. Navy's ongoing blockade of Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz constitutes continued hostility. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and cost at least $25 billion.

Trump characterized the War Powers Resolution as totally unconstitutional and rejected a recent Iranian peace proposal, citing discord within Tehran's leadership. While the U.S. seeks an international coalition to restore navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has vowed to defend the nation's nuclear capabilities. Trump is currently reviewing options for renewed strikes to break the diplomatic deadlock, while the U.S. Navy continues to redirect vessels to enforce the blockade.