Congressional leaders dismissed Friday’s deadline requiring reauthorization of military action against Iran, claiming the current cease-fire nullifies the War Powers Act’s 60-day limit despite ongoing blockade operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
White House Claims Cease-Fire Pauses Constitutional Clock
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth told senators Thursday that the 60-day War Powers Act clock stopped when President Trump announced a cease-fire on April 7. The administration maintains no congressional authorization is needed while military operations remain paused, despite maintaining a naval blockade controlling more than 20 percent of global seaborne oil traffic. The War Powers Act of 1973 requires presidents to terminate military force after 60 days unless Congress declares war or authorizes continued action.
When Senator Tim Kaine asked whether Trump would seek congressional reauthorization, Hegseth deferred to White House counsel. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly emphasized the administration provided over 30 bipartisan briefings to Congress and stressed Trump’s preference for diplomacy. The administration acknowledged active discussions with lawmakers but warned against political grandstanding that could undermine military authority abroad during sensitive negotiations with Iran.
Speaker Johnson Rejects Need For Congressional Action
House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed the administration’s position, telling NBC that no active combat operations eliminate the need for congressional involvement. The constitutional lawyer argued Congress should avoid interfering with delicate peace negotiations. He characterized current operations as policing the Strait of Hormuz rather than warfare, claiming congressional action cannot advance diplomatic progress. Johnson’s stance mirrors President Obama’s 2011 decision to continue the NATO Libya campaign beyond the 60-day window without congressional approval.
Senate Rejects Resolution To End Military Action
The Senate voted Thursday to reject a War Powers Act resolution that would have terminated military operations against Iran, with the measure failing 47-50. The vote marked the sixth attempt by lawmakers to force an end to military involvement under the constitutional provision designed to check executive war-making power. The failed vote came as the administration maintains its blockade while pursuing a permanent peace agreement with Tehran. Constitutional scholars note the administration’s cease-fire interpretation creates precedent for circumventing congressional war authority through indefinite pauses in hostilities while maintaining offensive military postures.