Trump Tells Congress: Fighting with Iran is Over—War Powers Act Deadline Met

According to BBC reporting on May 2, U.S. President Donald Trump informed Congress that hostilities between the United States and Iran have "ended" during the ongoing ceasefire, arguing that legislative approval is not necessary for this conflict. Trump's statement comes on day 60 since formally notifying Congress about military action against Iran—a critical deadline under U.S. law that requires him to "cease use of armed forces" within 60 days unless Congress approves continuation. In a letter to congressional leaders on Friday, May 1, Trump wrote that there have been no clashes between U.S. and Iranian forces since April 7, 2026, and that the conflict that began on February 28, 2026, has concluded. The War Powers Resolution requires the president to end military operations within 60 days unless Congress formally declares war or grants an extension of up to 30 days for troop withdrawal. Despite the ceasefire agreement, the U.S. and Iran have not reached a long-term agreement through negotiations, while Iran's IRNA news agency reports that a new proposal for resolving the dispute has been sent to Pakistan as a mediator, though details remain undisclosed and it is unclear whether the proposal has reached the United States. When speaking with reporters on Friday afternoon, May 1, Trump said, "We just spoke with Iran. We'll see what happens, but I have to tell you I'm not satisfied." Trump stated that reaching an agreement is difficult partly because Iran's government is "very confused" following the deaths of several senior military officials in the conflict. Trump added that he received various options from U.S. Central Command on April 30 ranging from complete destruction to negotiations. He further stated, "They won't comply with the agreement we want and we'll handle this properly. We won't withdraw prematurely and create problems over the next three years."