United States Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has argued that the 60 day deadline for seeking congressional approval for military action against Iran has paused because a ceasefire is in place. Under the War Powers Resolution, the president must end the use of armed forces within 60 days of notifying Congress unless lawmakers authorise continued action. Hegseth said the administration believes the ceasefire stops the clock, while Democratic Senator Tim Kaine disputed that interpretation and warned the deadline still applies.

A senior administration official said hostilities with Iran have terminated and noted there has been no exchange of fire since early April. However, no long term agreement has been reached, and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, contributing to global economic disruption. Administration officials are reportedly in discussions with members of Congress about possible authorisation.

Democratic efforts to limit the president’s war powers have so far failed, though some Republicans have indicated they may reconsider their positions after the 60 day period. The conflict began after the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory attacks. A senior defence official told lawmakers that operations have cost about 25 billion dollars to date, as debate continues over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the legal limits of presidential war powers.