Congress skips Iran war powers deadline as Trump claims hostilities ended

Congress left Washington without invoking its authority under the War Powers Act to authorize or stop President Donald Trump's military actions in Iran, even as some Republicans voiced worries about the Middle East situation.

The 60-day deadline passed Friday while lawmakers were in their home districts. The law requires congressional approval or an end to hostilities after that period.

Senate Democrats voted six times to limit Trump's war powers on Iran, but Republicans largely avoided challenging the administration's approach.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said most Republicans showed no interest in acting on the deadline. He added that lawmakers receive regular updates from military leaders to inform their choices.

Some Republicans, however, seek limits on Trump when Congress returns. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, drafted an Authorization for Use of Military Force that includes restraints.

"If we pass this 60-day mark from the start of hostilities with still a lack of a credible plan and information from the administration, it is one — it is something that I intend to introduce once the Senate reconvenes here," Murkowski said.

Trump sent a letter to congressional leaders Friday asserting he did not need their approval. He stated that hostilities in Iran, limited to minor clashes and a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, had ended.

"On April 7, 2026, I ordered a two-week ceasefire," Trump wrote. "The ceasefire has since been extended. There has been no exchange of fire between the United States Forces and Iran since April 7, 2026. The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have terminated."

Democrats argue a ceasefire does not end the war. "The ceasefire just means bombs aren't dropping," Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., told Fox News Digital. "It doesn't mean that the war's not on. I mean, we're still using the U.S. Navy to block anything going into and out of any port in Iran. That's war. We would consider — if somebody was doing it to us, that's war."

With no congressional move last week, the administration has 30 days to cease operations in Iran unless lawmakers approve. Democrats have hinted at court challenges if it does not comply, though some doubt success given the Supreme Court's likely stance.