Ceasefire with Iran ‘pauses’ 60-day clock on congressional authorization: Hegseth
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth told lawmakers that a ceasefire with Iran effectively 'pauses' the 60-day clock requiring congressional approval for military action. The Pentagon has spent at least $25bn on the military campaign so far.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee that a ceasefire with Iran pauses the 60-day clock under the War Powers Act. The law requires US President Donald Trump to seek congressional authorization or wind down military operations within 60 days of notifying Congress. Trump notified lawmakers on March 2 after US and Israeli strikes on Iran began on February 28. Hegseth defended the military campaign, saying the US munitions stockpile remains in good shape. However, some lawmakers cited reports that key weapons systems have been depleted. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine told senators that Russia has provided some support to Iran. Lawmakers questioned the Pentagon over civilian casualties and oversight mechanisms, with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand raising concerns about reported strikes on civilian sites.
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