The administration of President Donald Trump has insisted that the United States is not at war with Iran as the conflict reaches the 60-day limit set by the War Powers Resolution of 1973. House Speaker Mike Johnson said there are no active hostilities requiring congressional authorization and described current efforts as focused on brokering peace. The administration argues that a ceasefire with Iran effectively pauses or ends the legal clock requiring congressional approval.

President Trump formally notified Congress of military action on March 2, making May 1 the key deadline for authorization. While the law allows for a 30-day extension, it remains unclear whether the president will seek one. Administration officials say discussions with lawmakers are ongoing, but Democrats dispute the claim that a ceasefire halts the deadline, arguing that the statute does not support that interpretation.

The conflict began on February 28 with coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets, followed by retaliation from Iran against regional bases and shipping routes. The fighting has cost an estimated 25 billion dollars and resulted in the deaths of thirteen service members. Despite the ceasefire, military leaders have not indicated that operations will end soon.

Democratic lawmakers warn that the administration may be violating the War Powers Resolution if it continues military involvement without authorization. Efforts to curb the conflict face political obstacles in Congress and the possibility of a presidential veto, setting the stage for a deepening legal and constitutional debate over whether the United States is formally at war.