Congress lets War Powers Act deadline on Iran war lapse without acting

Key Points:

• Congress missed the 60-day deadline set by the War Powers Act to authorize or halt President Trump's military actions in Iran, with lawmakers returning home without taking decisive legal steps.
• Senate Democrats have repeatedly voted to limit Trump's war powers in Iran, but most Republicans have refrained from interfering with the administration’s plans, citing ongoing military briefings.
• Some Republicans, including Sen. Lisa Murkowski, are working on an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) aimed at imposing restraints on the administration’s actions once Congress reconvenes.
• President Trump claimed in a letter that hostilities with Iran have ended following a ceasefire ordered on April 7, 2026, but Democrats argue that military actions such as naval blockades still constitute ongoing war.
• If Congress does not authorize the military actions, the Trump administration must begin winding down operations within 30 days, with Democrats threatening legal challenges despite doubts about their success in the Supreme Court.