US-Iran Ceasefire Raises Questions About War Powers Act Deadline

US Forces Remain Active Despite Halted Air Attacks in Iran Conflict

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated that hostilities have ceased in the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, citing a fragile ceasefire with Tehran. However, lawmakers and legal experts disagree, arguing that the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution remains in effect.

The Trump administration had initially argued that the May 1 deadline for congressional approval was no longer relevant due to the ceasefire. Hegseth claimed that the ongoing yet fragile ceasefire had effectively paused the clock on the deadline. However, Democratic lawmakers and legal experts argue that the statute contains no provision allowing for a pause once the deadline has started.

The US and Iran have largely halted direct attacks since April 8 as ceasefire negotiations began, but those talks have since stalled. Tehran continues to block the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington maintains a naval blockade of Iranian ports and ships in the strait. President Trump has warned that strikes could resume.

According to officials, the absence of active exchanges since early April means hostilities have effectively ceased for the purposes of the War Powers Resolution. Some have suggested starting a new operation under a different name to get around the deadline.

The War Powers Resolution, passed in 1973, places limits on how long a US president can wage war without congressional approval. The law requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of introducing US forces into hostilities and then triggers a 60-day clock. If the president does not secure authorisation from Congress or end military involvement within that timeframe, they must either seek approval or withdraw forces.

The Trump administration’s position on the War Powers Resolution is being challenged by lawmakers and legal experts, who are debating how “hostilities” should be defined and whether a temporary ceasefire can alter legal obligations.

Source: Al Jazeera