A ceasefire between the United States and Iran that began in early April has “terminated” hostilities for the purposes of an approaching congressional war powers deadline, a senior official in President Donald Trump’s administration said on Thursday.
Trump faces a Friday deadline under the War Powers Resolution to either end military action, seek approval from Congress, or request an extension, though the administration expects the date to pass without requiring further steps.
“For War Powers Resolution purposes, the hostilities that began on February 28 have terminated,” the official said, explaining the administration’s position.
The official added that there has been no exchange of fire between US forces and Iran since the ceasefire took hold more than three weeks ago.
Earlier, analysts and congressional aides had indicated Trump might seek a 30-day extension or ignore the deadline, with the administration arguing the ceasefire effectively brought the conflict to a close.
Under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, a president may conduct military operations for up to 60 days without congressional approval, with the option of a 30-day extension if required for the safety of US forces.