A law that has been in force in the United States for decades allows the president to conduct war for 60 days without congressional approval. After that, however, it limits the options for continuing the conflict. According to the American press, Donald Trump may seek ways to bypass these restrictions.
In the Iran war, which has been ongoing for nearly eight weeks, Republicans in Congress have repeatedly blocked Democrats’ attempts to halt the operation and bring the process under congressional oversight. Democrats describe President Donald Trump’s initiation of the military campaign without congressional approval as unlawful.
However, some figures within the Republican Party point out that the approaching legal deadline could mark a turning point. In this context, Trump may be expected either to end the war or to seek explicit authorization from Congress to continue.
The Critical 60-Day Threshold
Following the attacks launched jointly with Israel on February 28, the United States, Trump argued that he was acting under his authority as commander-in-chief. Accordingly, the operation was framed as protecting “national interests” and supporting the “collective self-defense of allies.”
While Democrats reject this justification, the White House and most Republicans maintain that Trump has acted within legal boundaries.
The 1973 law grants the president the ability to conduct military operations for only 60 days without congressional approval. This period began when Trump formally notified Congress on March 2 and is set to expire on May 1.
Some figures, such as Republican Senator John Curtis, have openly stated that they “will not support unauthorized operations beyond 60 days.” Representative Brian Mast also warned that the balance could shift once the deadline passes.
Limited 30-Day Extension
Under the law, the president’s options narrow after 60 days. Trump must either seek authorization from Congress, gradually end the operation, or pursue a limited extension.
However, this extension is not automatic. The president must provide a written justification that additional time is necessary to ensure the safe withdrawal of troops. Moreover, this 30-day period is granted not to continue offensive operations, but solely to organize the withdrawal.
Could Congress Step In?
If it chooses, Congress can formally authorize the use of military force at any time, thereby legitimizing the process. Such authorizations are seen as the primary method replacing formal declarations of war, which have not been used since World War II.
However, the unity Republicans have shown in resisting efforts to halt the war may not hold when it comes to granting authorization. It is known that Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski has been working on this issue, though no concrete step has yet been taken.
Could Trump Exceed the Deadline?
U.S. presidents have long argued that the Constitution grants broad powers to the commander-in-chief, raising questions about the binding nature of such limitations.
For example, Barack Obama extended the 2011 Libya operation beyond 60 days, arguing that it did not constitute “active hostilities.” A similar interpretation could potentially be applied to Iran.
Trump, during his first term, similarly vetoed congressional decisions and described such efforts as “interference with constitutional authority.”