Trump argues War Powers Act is not needed, citing a mixed precedent across administrations

President Donald Trump claims he doesn’t need congressional authorization to extend U.S. actions against Iran, arguing past presidents flouted the War Powers Act and that the 60‑day clock has expired. The piece notes the record is mixed: Reagan sought congressional approval for Lebanon within the window; Bush Sr. sought approval for Desert Storm; Bush Jr. obtained authorizations for Afghanistan and Iraq; Clinton’s Kosovo bombing bypassed the 60‑day limit; Obama contended Libya did not count as hostilities and extended beyond the window. Legal experts warn that the War Powers Act still governs and that waging war without Congress risks constitutional overreach, leaving Trump with an unclear off‑ramp as tensions with Iran persist.