In the United States, democracy has long been presented as the gold standard for the balance of power. However, when it comes to war, this “balance“ seems like a convenient illusion. The War Powers Resolution is supposed to limit the president. In reality, it gives him a license to wage war quickly – as long as it fits into 60 days.
Donald Trump understands this perfectly well. That's why he's in a hurry. Not because time is pressing militarily, but because it's pressing politically. While the clock is ticking, he can act alone – within 60 days without any real control from the US Congress. Then comes the moment when that same Congress can stop funding, demand an account and turn the military operation into a political issue.
And here's the thing - first you start a war, then you seek approval.
This is not control – it is a legalized ex post facto. Within these 60 days, cities can be destroyed, conflicts can be redrawn, and entire regions can be thrown into chaos. Then Congress is faced with a fait accompli – either it supports it or it risks being accused of “betraying“ the soldiers.
The case of Iran is indicative. This is not just a geopolitical move, but a game with institutions. Speed is not a strategy on the battlefield, but a strategy against its own system of control.
And the greatest paradox: democracy, which should limit power, has created a mechanism through which it can be circumvented – completely legally, completely within the rules. War has a window. And whoever uses it in time, wins – at least politically.
The Actions
Trump's actions in Iran are based on the US law “War Powers Resolution“ (War Powers Resolution) of 1973. According to this law, the US president has the right to engage the armed forces in combat operations without prior approval from Congress, but with certain restrictions.
Here are the main facts:
60-day period: The US president can conduct military operations for up to 60 days after notifying Congress of their commencement.
Additional 30 days: After the 60 days expire, the president has the right to another 30 days to safely withdraw troops.
Dependence on the Senate: If after these 60-90 days Congress does not formally approve the military operations (through an Authorization for the Use of Military Force - AUMF), the president is obliged to terminate the operations and withdraw the forces.
As of April 2026, the situation is as follows:
On March 5, 2026, the US Senate rejected a resolution that aimed to limit Donald Trump's military powers in the event of an escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Although the Senate failed to restrain Trump, many Republicans and Democrats are closely watching the 60-day deadline (approaching the end of April 2026) and are ready to push for a vote in Congress if military action continues.
Trump himself and his administration often claim that the “War Powers Resolution“ is unconstitutional, which creates a constant legal and political struggle between the White House and Congress.
The law gives Trump the right to unilateral action for about 2 months, after which Congress has the legal right to stop funding and approval for the war.
And during these 60 days, such "mischief" can be done that the whole world will pay for expensive fuel, for example.
The USA - democracy on a timer or how 60 days give the right to war, with which they can drive the world crazy.