Donald Trump falls on the stairs while boarding Air Force One… See more

Critics of the administration suggest the timing of this “pause” is less about diplomacy and more about the ticking of a constitutional clock. On Friday, Trump informed Congress that hostilities with Iran have “terminated,” a claim that arrived precisely at the 60-day mark under the War Powers Resolution of 1973.

This federal law requires presidents to withdraw U.S. forces from unauthorized military engagements within 60 days unless Congress grants an extension. By declaring the conflict “terminated” due to a ceasefire implemented last month, Trump has effectively sidestepped a major legal showdown with the 119th Congress.

Yet, the ground reality remains combustible. Despite the declaration of termination, U.S. forces remain active in the region, and the blockade—which Trump insists will remain in “full force and effect”—is viewed by many international law experts as a continued act of war.

“Epic Fury” or Total Peace?