Trump tells Congress US-Iran hostilities terminatedUS-Iran hostilities terminated amid ceasefire
US President Donald Trump notified Congress that hostilities with Iran have terminated, sidestepping a 60-day War Powers Act deadline for authorization as a ceasefire took hold in early April. War Secretary Pete Hegseth testified that the ceasefire pauses the clock, while Trump rejected Iran's latest peace proposal seeking an end to conflict and a lifted blockade. The move follows a US campaign in Iran launched two months ago without congressional approval.
The announcement intensifies debate over presidential war powers, with Democrats rejecting the ceasefire pause and Republicans divided on needing future authorization if fighting resumes. Critics highlight the ongoing naval blockade and Iran's Strait of Hormuz control as signs of continued hostilities. It underscores tensions in US-Iran relations and potential impacts on global oil markets from regional instability.
US Administration
Hostilities with Iran ended under a ceasefire that began in early April, pausing the 60-day War Powers clock. The president notified Congress accordingly and rejected Iran's peace proposal as insufficient. A clear strategy guides next steps without needing immediate authorization.
Democrats
No pause exists in the Constitution for war powers requirements, and the blockade counts as a continuing act of war. Congress must authorize any force, especially with the campaign launched without approval. The administration shows disregard for legal obligations.
Republicans
Most avoid challenging the president, seeing no need for an immediate authorization vote. Some urge Congress to weigh in if hostilities resume or for a long-term strategy. The ceasefire changes the context from active war.
- The War Powers Resolution originated in 1973 after Vietnam to check presidential military actions.
- Iran controls the northern Strait of Hormuz shore, vital for 20% of global oil consumption.
- Pete Hegseth transitioned from Fox News host to Trump's War Secretary.
US-Iran Ceasefire War
The United States launched military strikes against Iran on June 26, 2026, in response to a drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "foolish violation" of the 60-day ceasefire agreement signed just days earlier[2][4][14].
26 June, 09:35 PM
US launches strikes against Iran following commercial ship attack26 June, 04:47 PM
Trump calls Iran drone attack on cargo ship a ceasefire violation
