Trump says hostilities between US and Iran have ended, sparking controversy by refusing congressional authorization.

President Trump told Congress on Friday that since the two-week ceasefire implemented and extended on April 7th, "hostilities between the United States and Iran have ceased," but his refusal to seek authorization from Congress based on legal grounds has sparked bipartisan controversy. This statement comes at a crucial juncture defined by the War Powers Resolution. According to the law, the President must obtain authorization from Congress within 60 days of initiating military action or else cease the related actions. And that day happened to be the 60th day since the conflict erupted in late February. In a letter to leaders of both houses of Congress, Trump stated that since April 7th, 2026, there has been "no further exchange of fire" between US forces and Iran, thus concluding that hostilities have ended. He further stated in response to questions from reporters at the White House that he will not seek authorization from Congress, saying "no previous president has done so," and questioning the constitutionality of the law. Defense Secretary Esper also stated during a Senate hearing that the ceasefire may imply a "temporary pause or halt" as stipulated by the law. However, this explanation was questioned by some lawmakers. Senator Tim Kaine expressed disagreement with the idea that the law allows for a suspension of the 60-day limit during a ceasefire. The Democrats swiftly retaliated against these remarks. Senate Minority Leader Schumer openly criticized Trump's statement as "absurd," stating that the current conflict is "an illegal war." Schumer pointed out that continued military actions not only threaten lives but also exacerbate global instability and raise prices, ultimately borne by the American people. Analysts believe that Trump's move is aimed at preventing Congress from passing measures restricting military actions against Iran, maintaining the executive branch's dominance in military decision-making. Despite Trump's claim that hostilities have ended, peace negotiations between the US and Iran have yet to make a breakthrough. Trump stated that Iran has proposed a new ceasefire plan, but it is "unsatisfactory," and that Iran has "presented some unacceptable conditions." Previously, Pakistan, as a mediator, confirmed that Iran has submitted an updated peace proposal to the US. Trump mentioned that negotiations are progressing but uncertainty remains about reaching a final agreement. He also noted serious internal divisions within Iran's leadership, with a lack of coordination among various factions hindering the negotiation process to some extent.