US House Speaker Mike Johnson has stated that the United States is “not at war” with Iran, even as the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution approaches. His remarks come amid ongoing US military activity in the region and parallel assertions by President Donald Trump that the situation does not constitute a formal war.
Under the War Powers Resolution, a US president can authorise military engagement for up to 60 days without explicit congressional approval or a formal declaration of war. Trump notified Congress of operations related to Iran on March 2, placing the deadline at the end of this week. However, Johnson indicated that current actions do not meet the threshold of active warfare, describing the situation as lacking sustained combat operations such as ongoing bombing or direct engagements.
He characterised the US role in the region as focused on maintaining stability and facilitating diplomacy, including efforts to secure maritime security around the Strait of Hormuz. Johnson also emphasised that the administration is prioritising negotiations and that Congress has limited scope to influence the process while sensitive diplomatic efforts are underway.
Trump has similarly framed the situation as a “military operation” rather than a war, highlighting economic and strategic pressure on Iran through measures such as the naval blockade. He argued that these actions have significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities and economy, while also expressing optimism that a negotiated settlement could still be reached.
Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth suggested that the current ceasefire alters the legal interpretation of the War Powers timeline, indicating that the 60-day limit may effectively pause during periods without active hostilities. This position reflects the administration’s view that congressional authorization is not immediately required under present conditions.
The broader context includes an earlier ceasefire announced in April, which temporarily halted active military operations and has since been extended. Diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran have continued, including talks held in Islamabad, though no agreement has yet been reached. Key points of disagreement remain, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear programme and conditions for lifting restrictions.
Overall, the situation reflects a complex overlap of military pressure, legal interpretation, and ongoing negotiations, with US officials maintaining that current actions fall short of a formal state of war despite continued tensions and strategic operations in the region.
