Republicans Defer to Trump on Iran Conflict as War Powers Deadline Passes

As the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution expired on May 1, 2026, Congressional Republicans opted not to challenge President Donald Trump's military actions in Iran. Despite earlier concerns, GOP lawmakers deferred to the White House, aligning with the administration's assertion that the early April ceasefire effectively ended the conflict, thereby nullifying the deadline.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated no plans to vote on authorizing force in Iran, stating,

"I'm listening carefully to what the members of our conference are saying, and at this point I don't see that."

While most GOP senators remained supportive or passive, a few, including Senators Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, advocated for a more active congressional role. Murkowski pledged to introduce a limited authorization if no plan is presented by the executive, and Collins emphasized the constitutional boundaries of presidential power.

The Trump administration maintains that the ceasefire initiated in early April has terminated hostilities, thus pausing the 60-day clock stipulated by the War Powers Resolution. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified that the ceasefire effectively paused the war, allowing the administration to avoid seeking congressional approval.

Democrats and some Republicans contest this interpretation, arguing that military operations, even during a ceasefire, still fall under War Powers stipulations. Despite ongoing U.S. naval operations, the administration maintains that hostilities have ended, sidestepping legal accountability.