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Pentagon Names Iran Conflict “Operation Sledgehammer,” Trump Bypasses Congress

5/13/2026

27 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Pentagon is considering renaming Iran conflict “Operation Sledgehammer” to restart War Powers clock.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said President Donald Trump can resume operations without congressional approval.
Senator Tim Kaine questioned the claim that the ceasefire pauses the War Powers deadline.
United States continues its Strait of Hormuz blockade while deploying greater firepower than at the war’s start.

History

Historical Context

The 1973 War Powers Resolution, passed after Vietnam, forces the president to obtain congressional authorization for hostilities lasting more than 60 days. Historically, Congress has reasserted this authority, holding hearings in 2021 and citing the five formal war declarations. The Pentagon’s plan to label the Iran operation “Operation Sledgehammer” would test that 60-day limit, risking erosion of congressional oversight.

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Story summary

Pentagon is considering renaming Iran conflict “Operation Sledgehammer” to restart War Powers clock.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said President Donald Trump can resume operations without congressional approval.
Senator Tim Kaine questioned the claim that the ceasefire pauses the War Powers deadline.
United States continues its Strait of Hormuz blockade while deploying greater firepower than at the war’s start.

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