Trump Tells Congress Iran Hostilities Have Ended as Ceasefire Holds

By Ginika Igboke 

Donald Trump formally notified Congress on May 1 that U.S. hostilities with Iran—ongoing since Feb. 28—have come to an end, citing a sustained ceasefire between the two countries.

The announcement coincides with the 60-day deadline outlined in the War Powers Resolution, which requires a president to terminate military engagement within 60 days unless Congress authorizes continued action or declares war.

Ceasefire Ends Active Combat Operations

In his letter to lawmakers, Trump stated that there has been no exchange of fire between U.S. and Iranian forces since April 7, marking a halt to active combat operations.

“The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have terminated,” the president wrote, framing the ceasefire as the effective conclusion of the conflict.

Although the 60-day window has elapsed since Congress was first notified, the administration argues that the ceasefire alters the legal timeline by pausing or ending the requirement for further authorization.

Debate Over War Powers Timeline

The administration’s interpretation has sparked disagreement among lawmakers. During a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Tim Kaine questioned whether the White House would seek congressional approval or invoke an additional 30-day extension allowed under the law.

Pete Hegseth responded that the ceasefire effectively pauses the 60-day clock, suggesting that the administration does not currently need to pursue further authorization.

Kaine disputed that interpretation, arguing that the text of the War Powers Resolution does not support suspending the deadline due to a ceasefire.

Trump Defends Administration’s Position

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump reiterated that the ceasefire provides flexibility for future military decisions if needed. He criticized those challenging his interpretation, asserting that the administration is acting within constitutional bounds.

The president also suggested that the United States remains in a strong strategic position, describing the outcome as part of a broader success in the conflict.

Ongoing Military Activity Raises Questions

Despite the ceasefire, U.S. forces continue to carry out operations in the region, including enforcing a naval blockade of Iranian ports. The United States Central Command reported that American forces have conducted boarding operations on vessels linked to Iran.

In one instance, a U.S. warship disabled an Iranian cargo vessel before troops boarded and took control. Such actions have fueled concerns among some lawmakers that hostilities may not have fully ceased.

Richard Blumenthal argued that the blockade constitutes an ongoing act of war, stating that there is no provision in the Constitution or the War Powers Resolution that allows for a “pause” in wartime obligations.

Diplomatic Efforts Continue Amid Tensions

While military activity persists at a reduced level, Washington and Tehran are continuing negotiations aimed at turning the ceasefire into a long-term peace agreement. Progress, however, appears limited.

Trump acknowledged that talks have made some advances but expressed uncertainty about whether a final agreement will be reached. Negotiations are ongoing, largely conducted through indirect or remote channels.

Uncertain Path Forward

The situation highlights the complex intersection of military action, legal authority, and diplomacy. While the administration maintains that hostilities have ended, continued enforcement operations and unresolved legal questions suggest that tensions remain.

As negotiations proceed and lawmakers debate the limits of presidential war powers, the future of U.S.–Iran relations—and the durability of the ceasefire—remains uncertain.