Trump Notifies Congress Iran Hostilities Terminated

President Donald Trump notified Congress on Friday that U.S. hostilities with Iran, which began on February 28, 2026, have terminated, allowing the administration to sidestep a congressional vote required under the War Powers Resolution as its 60-day deadline expired.

In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate President pro tempore Chuck Grassley, Trump stated, "The hostilities that began on Feb. 28, 2026, have terminated." The notification came one day after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee that a ceasefire in effect since April 7 pauses or stops the 60-day clock. The administration did not seek prior congressional authorization for the initial strikes, citing presidential powers as commander in chief.

The War Powers Resolution, enacted in 1973 over President Richard Nixon's veto, requires presidents to withdraw forces from hostilities within 60 days of notifying Congress unless lawmakers approve continued action or grant a 30-day extension for safety. Trump notified Congress on March 2, making May 1 the deadline. The law does not explicitly address ceasefires, fueling debate among legal scholars and lawmakers.