The US Congress is divided on whether a war with Iran would trigger the 60-day deadline of the War Powers Act.

Under the War Powers Act of 1973, the president must cease using force after a 60-day period if he initiates military action without congressional authorization. Currently, some lawmakers believe May 1st is the deadline, arguing that Trump informed Congress of the start of hostilities on March 2nd. However, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the current ceasefire means the 60-day clock has been paused or stopped. Senator Adam Schiff countered that a ceasefire does not stop the clock and argued that the military action was illegal from the outset because there was no imminent threat. Meanwhile, some Republican lawmakers, such as Lisa Murkowski, indicated they would introduce an Authorized Use of Force (AUMF) proposal to fulfill Congress's constitutional oversight responsibility if the White House fails to present a credible plan by next week. Currently, it remains uncertain whether Trump will request an additional 30-day extension allowed by the bill. (CNN)