Trump Announces End to Hostilities with Iran
President Donald Trump has officially declared an end to U.S. military hostilities with Iran in a letter sent on Friday to Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate President pro tempore Chuck Grassley. This announcement comes just as Congress approaches a critical deadline regarding the ongoing conflict.
The White House clarified that this letter was directed at Congressional leaders because the situation in the Middle East has reached a 60-day deadline under House law, specifically the War Powers Resolution of 1973. According to reports, military operations must cease unless Congress provides authorization for them to continue.
In his letter, Trump argued that hostilities have effectively ceased, referring to a ceasefire he initiated on April 7 that was later extended indefinitely. He stated, “Since April 7, 2026, there have been no firefights between U.S. forces and Iran. The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, are over.”
This letter seems to be a preemptive move to fend off a mounting conflict in Congress, where some lawmakers, including those from his own party, are questioning the administration’s course of action. There’s a palpable tension, particularly among Democrats and certain Republicans who are advocating for a drawdown of military operations.
Before leaving the White House for Florida, Trump spoke to reporters, mentioning that he had presented Iran with a “final offer,” though he acknowledged concern over the potential for a deal due to the country’s “fragmented” leadership. He noted they had made some progress but admitted to being “not satisfied” with it.
Echoing this viewpoint, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified earlier, suggesting that under the current ceasefire, the 60-day clock concerning military action is effectively paused or stopped, further outlining the administration’s legal stance.
In a rare break from party lines, Senator Susan Collins from Maine has come out in favor of a measure to terminate hostilities. She highlighted the importance of the deadline, stating, “That deadline is a requirement, not a proposal.”
Critics of the conflict argue that U.S. military presence in the region isn’t over. They contend that despite the announced ceasefire, around 50,000 U.S. troops remain stationed in the Middle East, and the blockade against Iran continues, suggesting that Trump’s understanding of the War Powers Act may be flawed.
In response to those seeking Congressional approval, Trump has been outspoken, calling them “not patriotic.” He cited that previous presidents have often exceeded the legal 60-day limit, adding, “Many past presidents viewed 60 days as entirely unconstitutional.”
