President Trump informed Congress that military actions against Iran have ceased, but signaled he may still pursue options beyond a deal.
Trump Claims End to Hostilities, Hints at Further Action
During a Friday conversation with reporters before departing for Florida, President Trump stated he may never reach an agreement with Iran, instead potentially “finish” the country.
“The Iranians want to make a deal and have made great strides, but I’m not satisfied with their proposals,” he admitted.
60-Day Deadline and the War Powers Resolution
Friday (May 1st) marked 60 days since the Trump administration notified Congress of commencing military operations against Iran. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 stipulates that if Congress does not authorize continued military action within 60 days, the operation must end.
Trump Argues Ceasefire Paused the Clock
In a letter to Congressmen, discussed by Politico, Trump argued that the ceasefire halted the counting of days for the ongoing war. “Since April 7, 2026, there has been no exchange of fire between the USA and Iran,” he wrote. He also noted the ceasefire was extended indefinitely.
“The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have ended,” he added.
Pentagon Backs Trump’s Interpretation, Democrats Disagree
Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth presented a similar stance the previous day, explaining that days under a ceasefire are not counted towards the duration of the war. However, Democrats and some Republicans disagree with the administration’s reasoning, emphasizing the operation must conclude after the deadline.
Some point out that despite the ceasefire, American armed forces remain engaged in a blockade of Iranian ports, with approximately 50,000 U.S. soldiers stationed in the Middle East.
Congressional Opposition and Calls for Accountability
Democratic Senator Tim Kaine assessed that the White House’s declaration of the war’s end without troop withdrawal is “simply wrong.” He added that Republicans must join Democrats to hold the administration accountable.
“I hope they hear enough from their constituents about how unpopular this war is and start voting in accordance with the constitutional oath they took,” the politician stated.
Republican Susan Collins stated, “This deadline is not a suggestion, it is a requirement.”
Trump Seeks Further Negotiations with Iran
Also on Friday, President Trump told reporters he is conducting negotiations with Iran by phone, and Tehran has “made great strides” towards reaching an agreement. However, he added that he is “not sure they will ever reach” a deal.
The U.S. President emphasized that Iranians cannot decide who their leader is and that “three, four different groups are claiming the right to govern.”
Internal Iranian Disputes and Trump’s Options
“Their leadership is very chaotic, they argue a lot with each other. They come to me, one says one thing, another says another,” he relayed.
Trump stated he could decide to end the war, which would be a “great victory,” but he won’t, as he wants further negotiations. When asked about options presented by the military, he replied he could either “blow them all to hell and finish it once and for all” or reach peace, preferring the latter from a humanitarian perspective.
Trump Challenges Constitutionality of War Powers Resolution
The American president also addressed the Congressional requirement for approval of further military action after 60 days of war. Trump assessed that the requirements outlined in the 1973 War Powers Resolution are unconstitutional, adding, contrary to fact, that no one has previously implemented these requirements.
