Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told senators Thursday the 60-day congressional approval deadline for the US-Israeli war with Iran is effectively paused due to a ceasefire.
Under the War Powers Resolution, President Trump must end the use of US armed forces within 60 days of notifying Congress unless it approves an extension. That deadline is Friday.
But Hegseth argued the clock stops during the ceasefire, which has held since early April despite no long-term deal. Democratic Senator Tim Kaine pushed back, saying the law likely doesn't support that interpretation.
The conflict erupted after US and Israeli strikes killed Iran's supreme leader, triggering retaliatory attacks. A senior administration official said hostilities have "terminated," though the key Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.
Cost of operations so far: $25 billion.