The 60-Day Deadline: President Trump and the Iran Conflict

The outcome of this deadline determines whether the President must seek formal congressional approval to continue military operations in Iran or if the administration can legally justify extending the conflict without a vote.

• •The 60-day clock for the Iran conflict, triggered by a March 2 notification, expires this Friday.
• •The War Powers Resolution requires the president to terminate the use of force unless Congress declares war or authorizes military action.
• •The law allows for a one-time 30-day extension solely for the purpose of safely withdrawing forces.
• •President Trump has stated he does not believe he needs congressional approval, citing the unconstitutionality of the War Powers Resolution.
• •The U.S. and Iran entered a ceasefire on April 8, which President Trump has since extended indefinitely.
• •Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Speaker Mike Johnson argue the 60-day clock is paused or inapplicable because the U.S. is not currently engaged in active, kinetic hostilities.
• •Senate Republicans, including John Curtis and Josh Hawley, have expressed that they expect the administration to seek congressional approval or provide an exit strategy.
• •Senator Lisa Murkowski is drafting legislation to authorize the use of military force, though its path to passage is uncertain.
• •Congress has never successfully used the War Powers Resolution to force the end of a military campaign.