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Trump Declares End to Hostilities with Iran, Claims No Need for Congressional Approval
President Trump Declares End to Hostilities with Iran
Donald Trump, the U.S. President, sent a letter to the federal Congress on May 1st (local time), notifying them that hostilities with Iran have "ceased" under an ongoing ceasefire agreement. Consequently, Trump asserted that congressional approval for the war against Iran, which was due by May 1st, is no longer necessary. In his letter, he stated that a two-week ceasefire was ordered on April 7, 2026, which was subsequently extended, and there have been no exchanges of fire between U.S. forces and Iran since that date. He also specified that the hostilities, which began on February 28, 2026, have concluded.
Controversy Over Interpretation of War Powers Act
Trump's assertion has ignited controversy over the interpretation of the War Powers Act. Under federal law, the U.S. President must obtain congressional approval within 60 days of initiating military action; otherwise, hostilities must cease. Trump told reporters that "no other country has done such a thing," maintaining that congressional approval is not required. In contrast, legal experts and the opposition Democratic Party lawmakers question this interpretation. Professor Heather Brandon-Smith of Georgetown University Law Center pointed out that a ceasefire does not signify a permanent end to conflict, thus the 60-day deadline remains valid.
*Source: Yahoo!ニュース (2026-05-02)*
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