Trump administration says Iran war ‘effectively over’, cites ceasefire to reset legal clock

The administration of Donald Trump is arguing that its conflict with Iran has effectively ended, pointing to an early April ceasefire—even as tensions persist in the Strait of Hormuz and US naval forces continue enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports.

Officials say that, for the purposes of the War Powers Resolution, hostilities that began on February 28 have now “terminated.” They note there has been no direct exchange of fire between US forces and Tehran since the ceasefire took effect on April 7, a truce that has since been extended.

This interpretation could allow the White House to avoid seeking fresh congressional approval for ongoing military involvement.

War powers clock in dispute

The argument builds on testimony by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who told lawmakers the ceasefire effectively paused the legal timeline under the War Powers Resolution.

Under the law, a president has 60 days to conduct military operations without Congress’s approval, after which they must either withdraw forces or seek authorisation. That deadline—triggered after Trump notified Congress of the February 28 strikes—was set to expire on May 1.

Hegseth maintained that the “clock” stopped during the ceasefire, a claim that has sparked immediate pushback.

Democrats challenge, Republicans split

Senator Tim Kaine called the interpretation unprecedented and lacking legal basis, while Democrats have continued to demand formal congressional approval.

Some Republicans have also raised concerns. Senator Susan Collins stressed that the 60-day deadline is “not a suggestion,” urging a clear strategy and defined objectives for any continued military engagement.

Ceasefire holds, but tensions remain

Despite the pause in direct fighting, the situation remains fragile. Iran retains influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy shipments, while US naval operations continue to restrict Iranian oil exports.

The conflict began with coordinated US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28, followed by retaliatory attacks targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting American bases. The wider regional fallout, including spillover into Lebanon, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement.

Proposal for a new mission

Amid the legal uncertainty, former National Security Council official Richard Goldberg has suggested reframing operations under a new mission—potentially dubbed “Epic Passage.” He argues such a framework could be defined as self-defense, focused on reopening the strait while preserving the option for further action.

The debate underscores a broader clash over executive authority and congressional oversight, even as the administration insists the war phase has come to an end.