The Iran War Is Terminated Because Trump Said So
The article discusses the Trump administration's claim that the military conflict with Iran has terminated, asserting that a ceasefire nullifies the 60-day War Powers Act deadline requiring congressional authorization. Critics, including some Republicans and Democrats, dispute this interpretation, arguing that military actions continue despite the legal benchmark. The piece also includes a personal reflection on Barney Frank, a former congressman remembered for his sharp intellect and political resilience.
- ▪The Trump administration declared the Iran war terminated to avoid complying with the 60-day War Powers Act deadline for congressional approval.
- ▪A letter from President Trump cited a ceasefire with Tehran as justification for continuing military operations without congressional authorization.
- ▪Critics argue that the U.S. is still engaged in hostilities, including port blockades, which constitute acts of war under international law.
- ▪Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the administration's position before Congress, while Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the relevance of the War Powers Act deadline.
- ▪The article also recounts the author's personal memories of Congressman Barney Frank, who recently entered hospice care following a long political career.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
NewsPolitics With Charles P. PierceThe Iran War Is Terminated Because Trump Said SoFollow Politics With Charles P. PierceView feedThe Iran War Is Terminated Because Trump Said SoPro tip, Mr. President: If you are still blockading ports, that's an act of war.By Charles P. PiercePublished: May 01, 2026 6:36 PM EDTChris Jackson//Getty Images7 min readBack in 1982, when I was still a rookie journo at the Boston Phoenix, I was assigned to cover a congressional race between incumbent Margaret Heckler and a Democratic MOC named Barney Frank, who already was a legend in Massachusetts politics (a field with a very high bar for becoming a legend). Frank had developed a reputation for being acerbic, but funny. Volatile, but brilliant.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Esquire.
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