The United States is approaching a critical deadline in Congress regarding the continuation of military action against Iran. This Friday marks 60 days since President Donald Trump formally notified Congress on March 2 of the start of hostilities against Iran, triggering a timeline set by the War Powers Resolution.
Under the resolution, the administration requires congressional approval to continue military operations beyond this 60-day period. However, a dispute has emerged between the White House and lawmakers regarding the expiration of this window.
On Thursday, Pete Hegseth told Congress that the current ceasefire with Iran effectively "pauses" the clock, a claim that contradicts the statutory timeline facing the administration.
Potential for escalated strikes
While the legal debate over the War Powers deadline continues, the Pentagon may be preparing for intensified combat. According to a report from Axios, US Central Command has drafted a plan involving a series of "short and powerful" strikes. These operations would be aimed at breaking the current stalemate in negotiations.
This possibility of renewed or escalated military action has already impacted global markets. France 24 reported that the news of potential new strike options pushed oil prices up by nearly 7%, with prices briefly surpassing $126 per barrel on Thursday before easing.
As the Friday deadline nears, the administration's next moves remain tied to both the legislative clock and the strategic objectives of Central Command.
