Trump tells Congress he does not need its approval for Iran war | BBC News

President Trump has told Congress that US hostilities with Iran have "terminated" owing to an ongoing ceasefire as he argued that he did not need lawmakers’ authorisation for the conflict. That risks leading to a showdown with lawmakers who do not accept that interpretation of the law.

The president has written to congressional leaders stating: “There has been no exchange of fire between the United States Forces and Iran since April 7, 2026…. The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026 have terminated."

It came on the 60th day since he formally notified Congress of strikes against Iran. US law requires him to "terminate any use of United States Armed Forces" within 60 days of such a notification – unless Congress allows a continuation.

"I have and will continue to direct United States Armed Forces consistent with my responsibilities and pursuant to my constitutional authority to conduct United States foreign relations and as Commander in Chief and Chief Executive," Trump wrote.

The relevant piece of US law, the decades-old War Powers Resolution, makes certain requirements of a president "within sixty calendar days" of their use of US armed forces in combat.

Trump has also repeated his claim that Iran wants to make a deal to end the war in the Middle East, but said he cannot accept their proposals. He also told reporters that Iranian leaders were “confused” and could not agree, because the US military attack on their country had been so successful.

Clive Myrie presents BBC News at Ten reporting by Sarah Smith in Washington.

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