Case Study—Iran

  • Joint U.S.-Israeli strikes began on Iran on February 28, 2026.
  • Trump submitted the required 48-hour report to Congress, asserting general Commander-in-Chief power to respond to a nuclear threat.
    • Congress had not specifically approved the use of force in iran.
  • The 60-day clock ran out on April 29, 2026.
    • Trump admin asked for $200 billion in funding for the offensive.
    • If Congress approved it, they would have essentially approved the use of military force.
  • Congress did not pass an authorization for either the fund or the explicit offensive.
  • Trump claimed that a ceasefire, and thus a cease to "hostilities" had occurred before the 60 day timer ran out.