US-Iran Conflict: Trump Faces War Powers Deadline as Military Proposes New 'Epic Fury' Phases

President Donald Trump reached a critical legislative juncture today, May 1, marking the expiration of the 60-day War Powers Resolution clock. Following his formal notification to Congress on March 1, the President must now either secure legislative authorization for ongoing operations against Iran or notify Congress of a 30-day extension. Observers suggest the administration may also choose to disregard the deadline as military planners move toward more intensive phases of the conflict. In a high-level briefing on Thursday, Admiral Cooper of U.S. Central Command presented President Trump with contingency plans for 'Operation Epic Fury.' These options include targeted strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure and the potential deployment of ground forces to secure portions of the Strait of Hormuz. To counter Iranian missile launchers that have moved beyond the range of current U.S. assets, CENTCOM has specifically requested the deployment of the Dark Eagle Long Range Hypersonic Weapon, a system that has not yet completed operational combat testing. Meanwhile, the regional security situation remains volatile as the U.S. naval blockade has already turned back 42 vessels attempting to transit the region. Iran has responded with escalatory rhetoric, warning of "long and painful strikes" against U.S. assets if attacks persist. On the diplomatic front, the State Department is initiating the 'Maritime Freedom Construct,' an effort to build a multinational coalition to ensure commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Oil markets have reacted sharply to the tension, with Brent crude fluctuating between $114 and $126 per barrel.