Congress Ignores Deadline for Iran War Reauthorization
WASHINGTON — As 60 days have passed since the start of Operation Epic Fury, key Congressional figures didn’t move to reauthorize military action against Iran by the Friday deadline.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) raised questions about whether such reauthorization is even necessary, while Senate Republicans similarly let the deadline slip by.
Army Secretary Pete Hegseth mentioned that the 60-day period effectively paused after President Trump announced a military ceasefire on April 7. “We are currently at a ceasefire,” he stated during Senate testimony on Thursday. “With a ceasefire, the 60-day clock is paused or stopped… That’s our understanding, please know.”
The War Powers Act of 1973 allows the president 60 days for military operations overseas, after which further force requires either a congressional declaration of war or authorization.
Interestingly, while discussing the potential for seeking congressional reauthorization, Hegseth said he would defer to the White House on that decision.
There’s been some hesitation from the White House regarding whether an extension will be requested formally or if authority for continued military action will be sought. White House Press Secretary Anna Kelly mentioned that President Trump has been open with Congress, providing over 30 bipartisan briefings since the operation began.
She added, “The president’s preference has always been diplomacy, and Iran wants a deal.” Since the ceasefire announcement, the administration has been actively engaging in discussions with Iran aimed at a more lasting resolution.
Currently, U.S. forces have blocked Iranian ships in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for a significant portion of the world’s oil supply.
It’s notable that during his presidency, Barack Obama managed to surpass the 60-day limit regarding military action in Libya without seeking congressional approval.
Johnson seemed to align with Hegseth’s stance that the ongoing ceasefire negates the need for further congressional authorization. “I don’t think there’s been any active military bombing or shooting or anything like that,” he noted, emphasizing that the current focus is on negotiating peace. He expressed reluctance to approach the administration in the middle of sensitive talks.
“We are not at war,” he clarified. “We are securing the Strait of Hormuz and working toward peace. The president and his administration are working as aggressively as possible. There is nothing Congress can do to move things forward.”
On another note, the White House acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding the War Powers Act with lawmakers and cautioned against using the situation for political gain. A White House official warned that undermining the commander-in-chief’s authority could harm U.S. forces abroad.
On Thursday, the Senate reviewed a sixth resolution under the War Powers Act aimed at halting military actions against Iran, but it ultimately failed with a 47-50 vote.
