Trump tells U.S. Congress that Iran conflict has ended to circumvent war authorization process

On May 2, U.S. President Trump notified Congress on Friday that hostilities against Iran had ended in April, a move aimed at allowing the White House to bypass congressional authorization. Under the War Powers Act of 1973, U.S. presidents can use military force overseas for up to 60 days without congressional authorization. Trump's 60-day war authority expires on May 1. Trump's letter claimed that the United States had stopped combat operations against Iran on April 7, when the two countries reached a temporary ceasefire agreement that had been extended. If hostilities resume, the 60-day countdown will reset and start over-an interpretation of the law that is likely to be questioned by Senate Democrats. "Since April 7, 2026, there has been no exchange of fire between U.S. forces and Iran. Hostilities that began on February 28, 2026 have now ended,"Trump wrote in the letter. (Wall Street Journal)