In a significant development concerning U.S. foreign policy, President Donald Trump informed Congress this week that military actions against Iran have officially ended. The declaration came as a 60-day deadline for congressional approval of the campaign expired.
According to a letter sent to congressional leaders on Friday, May 1, and reported by Politico, President Trump stated, "There has been no exchange of fire between the United States and Iran since April 7, 2026." He further declared, "The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have terminated."
The move effectively closes a chapter on a period of heightened tensions and appears aimed at preempting a legal and political battle over executive authority. The military campaign was launched in late February without prior congressional authorization, triggering the clock under the 1973 War Powers Resolution. This law requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing armed forces and to withdraw those forces after 60 days unless Congress authorizes the use of force or declares war.
By formally declaring the hostilities terminated as the clock ran out, the administration seeks to sidestep potential accusations of violating this statute. The development marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over the balance of war-making powers between the executive and legislative branches in the United States.
For observers of Asian geopolitics, the de-escalation between Washington and Tehran holds broader implications. Stability in the Middle East directly impacts energy security and economic considerations across Asia. The announcement will be closely analyzed by governments, investors, and security experts throughout the region as they assess the future trajectory of U.S. foreign policy and its global repercussions.
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Trump tells Congress Iran war 'terminated' as 60-day clock runs out
cgtn.com
