In a move widely seen as an attempt to circumvent congressional oversight, US President Donald Trump has declared that “hostilities” with Iran have been “terminated.” This declaration, made in a letter to Congress, conveniently comes as the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution approaches, allowing the US president to avoid seeking formal approval for his administration’s ongoing confrontational policies.

Trump asserted, “There has been no exchange of fire between United States Forces and Iran since April 7, 2026. The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026 have been terminated.” While presenting a facade of de-escalation, this statement starkly contrasts with the reality on the ground and the US’s persistent hostile actions.

Continued Provocation and Illegal Blockade

Despite his “ceasefire” declaration, Trump simultaneously confirmed that the US military is actively “updating its force posture in the Middle East.” This aggressive repositioning is ostensibly “to address Iranian and Iranian proxy forces’ threats and to protect the United States and its allies and partners.” However, from Tehran’s perspective, these actions are nothing more than continued military build-up and intimidation tactics in a region already destabilized by American intervention.

Furthermore, the US president’s declaration of a “ceasefire” on April 7, which was later extended, has not led to any genuine diplomatic breakthrough. Instead, Trump has vowed to maintain an illegal naval blockade on Iran, explicitly stating it will remain in place “until such an agreement is concluded.” This unilateral blockade, a clear violation of international norms, serves as a punitive measure against the Iranian people and undermines any pretense of peaceful resolution.

The Islamic Republic of Iran remains steadfast in its defense of its sovereignty and regional security, rejecting Washington’s coercive diplomacy and continued military threats.