The Trump administration is arguing that the war in Iran has effectively ended due to an April ceasefire, allowing it to avoid seeking congressional approval under the War Powers Resolution.

Officials say there have been no exchanges of fire since the ceasefire began, and therefore the legal 60-day limit for unauthorized military action does not apply.

The interpretation has been challenged by Democrats and some legal experts, who say the law does not allow the clock to be paused during a ceasefire.

Critics in Congress argue that continued military activity still requires formal authorization and a clear strategy, the AP has reported.

The dispute highlights growing tensions over presidential war powers and how the conflict with Iran is being legally defined.