The War Powers Resolution deadline for U.S. military engagement with Iran is set to expire Friday, intensifying discussions between the Trump administration and lawmakers over formal authorization for continued military action.
According to a White House official cited by CBS News, administration officials are actively negotiating with Congress as the 60-day limit approaches. The clock began on March 2, when President Donald Trump formally notified Congress following U.S. strikes on Iranian targets that commenced on February 28.
Under the War Powers Resolution, the president must secure congressional approval within 60 days of deploying armed forces into hostilities or withdraw troops. A one-time 30-day extension is permitted solely to ensure a safe disengagement, not to continue offensive operations.
The ongoing conflict has surpassed Trump’s initial estimate of a four-to-five-week duration, with no clear resolution in sight. The escalation began with coordinated U.S.-Israel strikes on Iranian targets, and the administration has since signaled broader strategic goals, including regime change in Iran.
In Congress, efforts to curtail presidential war powers have so far failed. In March, House Republicans blocked a Democratic-led resolution seeking to limit U.S. military involvement, passing by a narrow 219–212 vote. The Senate later followed suit, effectively allowing the administration to proceed without immediate legislative constraints.
However, concerns over legal compliance and long-term strategy persist within both parties. Republican Senators John Curtis and Josh Hawley emphasized the importance of adhering to the law while expressing hope for a swift conclusion to the conflict. Meanwhile, Senator Lisa Murkowski is reportedly drafting an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF), though its legislative status remains uncertain.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced bipartisan questioning during a congressional hearing on April 29, where lawmakers pressed for clarity on military objectives and exit strategy. Administration officials have also held private briefings on Capitol Hill to reassure legislators of operational control and planning.
While Republicans have largely backed the president’s actions, Democrats continue to criticize the lack of explicit congressional approval, raising concerns over constitutional authority, rising casualties, and mounting financial costs.
No formal vote on war authorization has been scheduled so far. Negotiations are ongoing, with one Democratic proposal suggesting a temporary extension of 30 days before requiring approval. The White House has previously welcomed the rejection of earlier war powers resolutions, viewing them as implicit support for the president’s authority.
With the May 1 deadline imminent, the administration faces a narrowing window to secure legal backing or risk violating statutory limits. As Senator Curtis noted, the 60-day period is intended to address emergencies, after which, the decision to continue military engagement rests with Congress.