The administration of US President Donald Trump has said that the conflict with Iran has effectively ended because of a ceasefire that started in early April. This position could allow the government to avoid seeking formal approval from the US Congress under the War Powers Resolution, which usually requires congressional authorization for extended military action.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had earlier explained this stance during testimony before the Senate on April 30. He stated that active fighting had stopped and that the ceasefire had paused direct military conflict.
Even with the ceasefire in place, tensions remain high in the region. Iran continues to maintain control over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a major global oil shipping route. At the same time, the US Navy has reportedly enforced measures to block Iranian oil exports by preventing tankers from transporting crude oil.
In Tehran, local media reported that air defense systems were activated in response to small aircraft and drones, showing that security concerns remain despite reduced large-scale fighting.
Elsewhere in the Middle East, instability continues. The US Embassy in Lebanon has urged Lebanese and Israeli leaders to hold talks after Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon reportedly killed at least 15 people, despite an existing ceasefire there.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has also repeated his commitment to protecting Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. He said Iran would resist US attempts to weaken these capabilities through military strikes or political pressure.
Although the ceasefire has reduced direct US-Iran fighting, the broader regional situation remains fragile, with military, political, and security tensions continuing across several fronts.