Senate Republicans are pressing the Trump administration to clarify its interpretation of the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Act for military operations against Iran. The clock, which began with the first strikes on Feb. 28, is approaching its limit, requiring the president to seek congressional authorization or cease operations.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth offered a novel view during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, suggesting the timeline can "pause or stop" during a ceasefire. This interpretation has created a political opening for Republicans who have previously considered supporting a war powers resolution.
Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.) noted "some wiggle room" in Hegseth's position, while Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) expects the administration to send a formal notification stating, "Here's where we think we are under the War Powers." Both senators signaled openness to the administration's approach.
The administration's interpretation lacks a clear legal precedent, raising questions about how courts or Congress might ultimately define the clock's duration. Critics argue the pause concept could allow extended operations without explicit approval.
Some legal scholars warn that a pauseable clock undermines the War Powers Act's core intent of limiting prolonged military engagements. The White House has not yet issued a formal legal memo outlining the rationale.