Can Trump Continue a War Without Congressional Approval?

President Trump launched strikes on Iran without seeking prior congressional approval, invoking the 1973 War Powers Resolution, which allows a president to conduct military operations for up to 60 days without formal authorization.

That period can be extended by 30 more days with written notification, but after that, troops must be withdrawn unless Congress explicitly approves the mission.

The administration argues the strikes were defensive, justified by an “imminent threat.” Republicans largely support the president’s authority as commander in chief, while Democrats reject the justification, accusing the administration of shifting explanations—from targeting nuclear sites to broader regime-change rhetoric.

Even if Congress passed a resolution to halt hostilities, Trump could veto it. Overriding that veto would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers—a near-impossible threshold under the current partisan balance. The clock is ticking, and the constitutional battle is just beginning.