US-Iran War Authorization 60-Day Deadline Expires, Trump Administration's Claim of Ceasefire Pausing Clock Draws Scrutiny

US-Iran War Key News

(Washington, Central News Agency, May 1st) The US Trump administration claims that the ceasefire between the United States and Iran has 'paused the clock' on the congressional authorization deadline for the US-Iran conflict, preparing to disregard the original authorization deadline. This move has drawn backlash from Democrats and questions from Republicans. Congress expects the 60-day deadline to expire tomorrow.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that according to the 1973 War Powers Resolution, the President must notify Congress within 48 hours of taking military action and withdraw US forces within 60 days, unless Congress declares war or authorizes the use of force.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth testified today before the Senate Armed Services Committee that the current ceasefire with Iran, which began on April 8th, has paused the countdown.

Although Trump has suspended airstrikes against Iran, US forces continue to enforce a naval blockade, prohibiting ships from entering and exiting Iranian ports. Under international law, a blockade is considered an act of war.

Hegseth said, "We are currently in a ceasefire, and our understanding is that this means the 60-day countdown is paused or stopped during the ceasefire." He added, "That is our understanding."

According to the law, the 60-day period can be extended by 30 days if the President certifies in writing to Congress that the continued use of force is necessary for the safe withdrawal of US forces.

Virginia Democratic Senator Tim Kaine refuted Hegseth's claim that the ceasefire paused the clock. He stated, "I don't believe the statute supports that claim."

When Kaine asked whether Trump ultimately intends to seek congressional approval for the war, or submit the legally required certification for an additional 30-day withdrawal, Hegseth deferred the question to the White House.

Kaine said, "This will bring a very important legal question to the administration... We have serious constitutional concerns."

Some Republicans also expressed skepticism about Hegseth's argument.

Indiana Republican Senator Todd Young said, "It stopped from the beginning of the ceasefire? Which ceasefire? If they haven't stopped firing, is the ceasefire still valid? I don't know. Is there any legal precedent for this? I mean, these are questions that members of Congress will ask."

Young stated that he expects the administration to submit a formal legal argument to Congress after Hegseth's comments. (Compiled by Li Peishan) 1150501

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