Trump administration says its war in Iran has been 'terminated'
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- The Trump administration argues that the war in Iran ended with a ceasefire in early April, aiming to avoid seeking congressional approval as required by the 1973 War Powers Resolution after 60 days of military action.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified that the ceasefire effectively paused the war, a position criticized by lawmakers and legal experts who say the War Powers Resolution does not allow the 60-day clock to be paused.
- Despite the ceasefire, Iran continues to control the Strait of Hormuz, and the U.S. Navy maintains a blockade to prevent Iranian oil tankers from leaving, complicating claims that hostilities have ceased.
- Some lawmakers, including Sen. Susan Collins, demand clear congressional authorization for any continued military action, emphasizing the need for defined goals and strategy.
- Legal experts and critics warn the administration’s interpretation represents an unprecedented and legally unsupported extension of executive military authority under the War Powers Resolution.
