Congress Is a Deserter From Trump's Iran War
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed a ceasefire with Iran pauses the 60-day War Powers clock, challenging Congress to assert its constitutional authority, which it has repeatedly failed to do through rejected resolutions and symbolic votes. The Trump administration argues this interpretation preserves diplomatic leverage by maintaining military pressure, while critics say it undermines the War Powers Resolution's intent. Congress's inaction continues a long-standing pattern of deferring to presidential military decisions despite constitutional responsibilities.
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...By Newsweek EditorsShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.At a Senate hearing, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth offered the line that may define the next era of presidential war-making: "We are in a ceasefire right now, which our understanding means, the 60-day clock pauses or stops." The Trump administration’s view is clear: The hostilities with Iran have terminated for now. That means the May 1 deadline for 60 days doesn't apply. But Hegseth’s theory isn’t an established constitutional fact. It’s a challenge to Congress, one that dares lawmakers to disagree and limit the president’s power.
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