War Powers Clock Hangs Over U.S.-Iran Conflict as Ceasefire Shifts Deadline

The War Powers Resolution imposes a 60-day clock on hostilities without congressional authorization; with the Feb. 28 strikes against Iran, the clock would expire May 1, but a continuing ceasefire and White House claims that hostilities are paused complicate how Congress’s role will be exercised, as lawmakers debate whether to extend, authorize, or halt actions and a potential 30-day extension could be sought when Congress returns from recess.