[Trump Tells U.S. Congress Iran Conflict Has Ended, Avoids War Authorization Procedures] According to the 1973 War Powers Act, the U.S. President can deploy military forces overseas for up to 60 days without congressional authorization. Trump's 60-day war authority expired on May 1. Trump's letter claims that the U.S. ceased combat operations against Iran on April 7, when the two nations reached a temporary ceasefire agreement, which has since been extended. If hostilities resume, the 60-day countdown will reset and restart—a legal interpretation likely to face challenges from Senate Democrats. 'Since April 7, 2026, there has been no exchange of fire between U.S. forces and Iran. Hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have now ended,' Trump wrote in the letter.