By Blessing Nweke

President Donald Trump has told Congress that US hostilities with Iran have “terminated,” arguing that a current ceasefire removes the need to meet a  deadline for legislative approval of the conflict.

Under the War Powers Resolution, a president must secure congressional authorization within 60 days of notifying lawmakers of military action or halt operations. However, in a letter sent on the 60th day since he reported strikes on Iran, Trump said the ceasefire agreed last month effectively paused that clock.

“There has been no exchange of fire between United States Forces and Iran since April 7, 2026,” Trump wrote, adding that hostilities that began on February 28 had ended.

Despite the claim, no long-term peace agreement has been reached. Iranian state media reported that Tehran had sent a new negotiation proposal via Pakistan, though details remain unclear and it is uncertain whether Washington has received it.

Speaking to reporters, Trump expressed frustration over stalled talks, saying Iranian leadership appeared “very confused” following the deaths of several top military officials during the conflict. He added that US military options ranged from escalation to diplomacy but insisted any resolution must be lasting.

Meanwhile, the US Treasury warned that entities paying Iran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz risk violating sanctions, as the critical shipping route remains largely closed, affecting global markets.

In Congress, debate continues over whether to vote on formal authorization. Critics, including Senator Tim Kaine, argue the ceasefire does not suspend legal requirements, while legal experts question the administration’s interpretation.