US President Donald Trump Declares War with Iran Concluded

US President Donald Trump has informed Congress that the military conflict with Iran is effectively over, citing a cessation of hostilities since April 7, 2026, to bypass the 60-day legislative limit for unauthorized military operations.

Key points

• The White House claims the ceasefire suspends the 60-day countdown required for Congressional authorization of military action.
• Critics, including Senator Susan Collins, argue the conflict remains active as US forces continue to blockade Iranian ports and maintain 50,000 troops in the region.
• The US Department of the Treasury announced new sanctions against Iranian shadow banking networks and currency exchange points used to convert oil revenues.
• Independent Senator Angus King noted that the war has cost the US approximately $50 billion, double the Pentagon's initial estimates.

Why it matters

The declaration aims to mitigate political friction with Congress over war powers while the administration continues to exert economic pressure on Iran through sanctions.