US Administration Clarifies Stance on Iran Amid Ceasefire

US Not at War with Iran, Says House Speaker

Washington DC: The administration under Donald Trump has clarified that the United States is not currently engaged in warfare with Iran. This statement from US House Speaker Mike Johnson comes as the 60-day legal timeframe for Congress to authorize military action approaches its conclusion. The administration believes that the existing ceasefire with Iran effectively suspends this legal timeframe.

As tensions in the Middle East escalate, oil prices have surged globally, impacting various markets. When questioned about the impending deadline, Johnson stated, "We are not at war." He elaborated, "There is no active military engagement, such as bombing or firing. Our focus is on negotiating peace," during an interview with NBC News. He expressed caution about making premature statements during these delicate negotiations.

In a related context, US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth informed lawmakers that the ceasefire with Iran effectively pauses the 60-day requirement for congressional approval regarding military actions. This clarification came in response to Democratic Senator Tim Kaine's inquiry about whether the administration would seek Congress's consent to extend military operations against Iran. The deadline is set to expire on May 1.

Hegseth remarked, "Ultimately, I would defer to the White House and its legal counsel; however, we are currently in a ceasefire, which we believe halts the 60-day countdown." This statement was made during a congressional hearing, as reported by various news outlets. He assured senators that the Pentagon is committed to protecting civilians during this period.

However, Senator Kaine contested this interpretation, arguing that the statute does not support such a pause and highlighted the significant legal implications for the administration. The hearing also addressed a previous airstrike that resulted in over 170 casualties at a girls' school.

On Thursday, President Trump made several assertions regarding Iran's internal affairs and the US's ongoing strategies, claiming that American involvement has thwarted mass executions and considerably weakened Iran's military strength.

It is important to note that according to the 1973 War Powers Resolution, the president is required to secure congressional approval or cease military operations within 60 days of initiating any military action.